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Iodine-131

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Identification
Molecular formula
131I
CAS number
10043-66-0
IUPAC name
iodine-131
State
State
At room temperature, iodine-131 is typically a solid. As a member of the halogen group, it can sublime, transforming from a solid directly to a gas at elevated temperatures.
Melting point (Celsius)
113.70
Melting point (Kelvin)
386.90
Boiling point (Celsius)
184.30
Boiling point (Kelvin)
457.50
General information
Molecular weight
130.91g/mol
Molar mass
130.9060g/mol
Density
4.9330g/cm3
Appearence

Iodine-131 is a radioactive isotope of iodine and appears as a silvery-gray solid at room temperature. It is a significant isotope used in the treatment of thyroid disorders. It shares the same appearance as stable iodine, which includes a metallic luster as a solid.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Iodine-131

Iodine-131 (⁻’I) is a radiolabeled isotope commonly used in medical applications. Its solubility in various solvents is influenced by several factors, which can be categorized as follows:

  • Water Solubility: Iodine-131 is relatively soluble in water, primarily due to its nature as a halogen. However, its solubility can be limited depending on its chemical form.
  • Organic Solvents: It displays varying solubility in organic solvents. For instance, iodine typically dissolves better in non-polar solvents, while its ionized forms may show better solubility in polar solvents.
  • Temperature Effects: Increased temperatures usually enhance solubility; thus, solubility trends can vary based on the environmental conditions.

It is important to note that the solubility behavior of I-131 is crucial for its application in medical diagnostics and treatment. As emphasized by one source: “The management of iodine-131's solubility is integral to its effective use in thyroid therapies.” Consequently, understanding and manipulating the solubility of I-131 allows for improved patient care and enhanced therapeutic efficacy.


Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About Iodine-131

Iodine-131 (I131) is a fascinating isotope with a myriad of applications, particularly in the field of medicine. Here are some engaging insights into this compound:

  • Medical Uses: I131 is primarily known for its use in the treatment of thyroid conditions, particularly hyperthyroidism and thyroid cancer. The radioactive properties allow it to target thyroid cells effectively, helping to shrink overactive gland tissues.
  • Diagnostic Tool: Besides therapeutic applications, I131 is also utilized in diagnostic imaging to evaluate thyroid function. By monitoring the uptake of this isotope, physicians can gain insight into thyroid disorders.
  • Short Half-Life: One of the notable characteristics of I131 is its half-life of approximately 8 days. This short duration ensures that the radioactivity decreases quickly after treatment, minimizing long-term exposure for patients.
  • Formation and Occurrence: I131 is produced in nuclear reactors as a result of fission processes. It is a byproduct in the decay of uranium and plutonium, making it an important isotope in the context of nuclear science.
  • Safety Measures: As with any radioactive material, handling I131 requires stringent safety measures. Adequate shielding, proper waste disposal, and careful monitoring are essential to ensure safety for both healthcare workers and patients.

In summary, I131 is more than just a radioactive isotope; it plays a pivotal role in modern medicine, revolutionizing how we understand and treat thyroid-related diseases. Its combination of therapeutic and diagnostic capabilities makes it a unique compound in the world of chemistry and health sciences.

As the famous physicist Albert Einstein once said, "In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity." This certainly rings true in the case of I131, which transforms the challenges of thyroid disorders into opportunities for healing.

Synonyms
Iodine 131
Iodine I-131
Iodine, mol. (131I2)
Radioactive iodine-I131
UNII-I5X6L61HUT
Radioactive iodine (131I)
Iodine I 131
Iodine, isotope of mass 131
Iodine, labeled with iodine-131
10043-66-0
I-131
Iodine, isotope of mass 131, at.
IODINE, I-131
15124-39-7
I 131
IODINE (131 I) [WHO-DD]
IODINE, ISOTOPE OF MASS 131 [HSDB]
Iodotrope
131-Iodine
Bound Iodide I-131
Iodide, I-131
IODINE (131 I)
DTXCID201476404
14914-30-8
dtxsid30905493
iodide i-131
iodotope (tn)
IODINE-131
I5X6L61HUT
131I radioisotope
SCHEMBL14762256
PNDPGZBMCMUPRI-HVTJNCQCSA-N