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Radiochemical Methods in Analysis pp 407–436Cite as

Determination of Radioactivity Present in the Environment

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Abstract

The development of radioactivity monitoring equipment to sophisticated levels has permitted detection of otherwise unseen phenomena of major significance to man. In recent times refined techniques have yielded data of basic importance to the biosciences, geosciences and cosmosciences alike. Dating methods have become key contributors to the understanding of our geological and archaeological past. Analyses of biospheric materials have equipped us with some idea of the health hazards presented by a wide spectrum of radioisotopes. At this time, when man’s influence on his surroundings has reached the quasi-vertical stage of exponential increase, perhaps the prime contribution of radioactivity studies lies in the definition of the delicately balanced equilibria on which a stable environment depends. Through their function as tracers of terrestrial geophysical and geochemical processes, radioisotopes can expand our awareness of this earth and thereby, perhaps, influence our future relationship to it.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Chemistry, The University, Glasgow, G12 8QQ, Scotland

    M. S. Baxter

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  1. M. S. Baxter
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Editors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Industry, Laboratory of the Government Chemist, Cornwall House, Stamford Street, London S.E.1, England

    D. I. Coomber

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© 1975 Plenum Press, New York

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Baxter, M.S. (1975). Determination of Radioactivity Present in the Environment. In: Coomber, D.I. (eds) Radiochemical Methods in Analysis. Springer, Boston, MA. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4613-4401-8_10

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4613-4401-8_10

  • Publisher Name: Springer, Boston, MA

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