hafnium177

Hafnium-177 is a radioactive isotope of hafnium. Its nucleus contains 72 protons and 105 neutrons, for a total of 177 nucleons. Hafnium-177 is a stable isotope and is the most abundant natural isotope of hafnium, making up about 18.6% of the element's natural abundance. While often referred to in the context of nuclear medicine, it is not the isotope used in therapeutic applications.

The isotope hafnium-177m (metastable) is a different entity. Hafnium-177m is an isomer of hafnium-177 and is characterized by a longer-lived excited nuclear state. This metastable isotope, hafnium-177m, is the one of significant interest in nuclear medicine. It undergoes isomeric transition, releasing gamma rays and an electron, which are then captured by surrounding tissue, delivering a therapeutic radiation dose.

Radioactive hafnium isotopes, particularly those used in research or potential medical applications, are typically produced in nuclear reactors or accelerators. The decay properties of a radioactive isotope determine its suitability for various applications. Hafnium-177m has been investigated for use in targeted radionuclide therapy, where it is attached to a molecule that specifically targets cancer cells. This approach aims to deliver radiation directly to the tumor while minimizing damage to healthy tissues. The gamma emissions from hafnium-177m can also be used in certain imaging techniques.