Approximately how long is the half-life of Co-60?

Cobalt-60 (Co-60) is a radioactive isotope commonly used in radiography and radiation therapy due to its gamma radiation, which penetrates materials effectively. The half-life is a critical characteristic of a radioactive material, indicating the time required for half of the radioactive atoms in a sample to decay. For Co-60, the established half-life is approximately 5.3 years.

This half-life is significant for practical applications, such as determining how often a source needs to be replaced or how long it remains effective for its intended purpose in testing and treatment processes. The stability and decay behavior of Co-60 must be well understood to ensure safe and effective usage in industries relying on radiographic techniques.