69Ga

69Ga, or gallium-69, is the nuclide of the element gallium that has a mass number of 69. It contains 31 protons, so its neutron count is 38. It is one of the two stable isotopes of gallium, the other being 71Ga.

Natural occurrence and abundance: In naturally occurring gallium, the two stable isotopes are present in a characteristic ratio. About 60 percent of natural gallium is 69Ga, with the remainder predominantly 71Ga. Because both isotopes are stable, this ratio remains essentially constant in ordinary conditions.

Stability and decay: 69Ga is stable and does not undergo radioactive decay. As a result, there is no half-life associated with this nuclide, and its presence in materials is determined by chemical processes rather than radiochemical considerations.

Production and availability: Gallium is not found free in nature and is obtained mainly as a byproduct of refining bauxite for aluminum and, to a lesser extent, from zinc ore processing. The isotope composition of commercially produced gallium reflects the natural abundances of 69Ga and 71Ga.

Chemical and practical notes: Isotopes of an element share the same chemical properties, so 69Ga behaves identically to 71Ga in reactions and compounds. The stability of 69Ga means it is not used for radiolabeling or radiotracer applications; rather, its isotopic ratio can be relevant in certain analytical and geochemical measurements.

See also: gallium, gallium isotopes, natural isotope abundances.