Answer to Question #127678 in Organic Chemistry for ARYA KUMARI

Question

On the basis of their positions in the periodic table, why is it not surprising that 90Sr, a dangerous
radioactive isotope of strontium, replaces calcium in newly formed bones?

Answer 1

Strontium-90, is a radio isotope of strontium which tends to accumulate in the bone of human beings and some animals whenever it is initiated into the body. The Strontium-90 has a chemical resemblance to Calcium which is always known for protection of bones and teeth. Due to its similarity in chemical composition, it is absorbed in the teeth and bones, where continued ejection of electrons which however, causes radiation injury by damaging the bone marrow leading to damage formation of new blood cells. This may give rise to cancer. ⁹⁰Sr causes is a product of nuclear fission and also can be found in radioactive wastes. Strontium has a high affinity to the calcium-sensing receptor of parathyroid cells that is indistinguishable to that of calcium.

Nevertheless, under controlled conditions, strontium has been used in treatment of some superficial cancers and bone cancer.