Dan's+page

Basic Applications of Radioactivity

-America's advanced industrial economy and high standard of living would not be possible without the use of radioactive materials. They make it possible to do many jobs better, easier, quicker, cheaper and more simply. In some cases, there are no alternatives to radioactive materials. -Radioactive materials are used extensively in medical diagnosis and treatment; research into cures for disease; the development of new drugs; hardier, more disease-resistant crops; everyday consumer goods and services; and the nuclear energy that supplies about one-fifth of our electricity—to name just a few. -Radioactive materials also provide substantial economic and employment benefits to Americans. Every year, radioactive materials—not counting those related to the generation of electricity—are responsible for approximately $330.7 billion in total industry sales; four million jobs; and $60 billion in tax revenues to local, state and federal governments. The direct and indirect economic impact of nuclear energy for generating electricity totals $90 billion in total sales of goods and services; 442,000 jobs; and $17.8 billion in federal, state and local government tax revenues.

Link for Info on Radioactivity: http://www.nmcco.com/education/facts/radiation/medical.html