The peaceful atom: part 2

In this second program in a three-part series on peacetime uses of atomic energy, Lynn Poole demonstrates how radioactive iodine has been collected in a woman's thyroid for diagnosing goiter. An animated film shows the differences in size, shape, and stability of various atoms, the unstable ones being labelled radioactive isotopes. Dr. Bugher, of the Atomic Energy Commission, claims that the use of nuclear energy has advanced medicine by 25 years. For example, radioactive isotopes can be used to study the actual functioning and behavior of plants and animals, to trace and diagnose diseases such as thyroid problems, and to treat and cure diseases such as polycythemia, a form of cancer. He also demonstrates a thulium x-ray unit and narrates a short film showing cobalt-60 radiation of a patient with cancer. Gamma radiation is compact, reliable, and intense. Dr. Bugher notes that cesium, separated from the waste of atomic reactors, is a useful source of radiation. commercial electrical power. Dr. Hafstad, Director of the Reactor Development Division of AEC, discusses the costs and problems of harnessing atomic power. He points out that although our coal and oil supplies are dwindling and uranium supplies are vast, the cost of generating power from the atom is currently prohibitive. However, he predicts that, within the next five to fifteen years, as nuclear power is developed, its costs will fall.