Ba-133

Barium-133 (Ba-133) is a radioactive isotope of barium with a half-life of approximately 10.5 years. It decays through electron capture to emit gamma radiation, making it a useful source of gamma photons with well-defined energy levels. Ba-133 is produced artificially in nuclear reactors and does not occur naturally in the environment.

Ba-133 is widely used in scientific and industrial applications. It is a standard source for calibrating gamma-ray detection equipment, including scintillation counters and gamma spectrometers, due to its stable and well-characterized gamma emissions. In research, Ba-133 is employed to study nuclear physics and radiation interactions. Its predictable radiation profile also makes it valuable for training purposes in radiation safety and detection.

Ba-133 is primarily encountered in controlled environments such as laboratories, medical facilities, and industries that require precise radiation calibration or research tools. Its artificial production and use under strict regulations ensure it is not typically found in the natural environment.