The following are the half lives of four active isotopes. Which one of the following is the most dangerous to handle? A. 3 billion years B. 100 years C. 0.01 minute D. 13 days

3 billion years
100 years
0.01 minute
13 days

The correct answer is C. 0.01 minute.

The half-life of a radioactive isotope is the amount of time it takes for half of a given sample of the isotope to decay into another element. The shorter the half-life, the more radioactive the isotope is.

Isotopes with short half-lives are more dangerous to handle because they are more likely to decay and release radiation. Radiation can damage cells and DNA, leading to cancer and other health problems.

Isotopes with long half-lives are less dangerous to handle because they are less likely to decay and release radiation. However, they can still be dangerous if they are inhaled or ingested, as they can build up in the body over time.

In conclusion, the most dangerous isotope to handle is the one with the shortest half-life. This is because it is more likely to decay and release radiation.