Question

³³p is a radioactive isotope of phosphorus. can ³³p be used to make a radioactive nucleotide?
a. no, because it is chemically different from other isotopes of phosphorus.
b. yes, because all isotopes of an element give off radiation.
c. no, because an isotope is a different form of an element.
d. yes, because it can replace the phosphorus atom in the phosphate group.

Explanation:

Isotopes of an element have the same chemical properties. $^{33}P$ is a radioactive isotope of phosphorus. Phosphorus is a key component of the phosphate - group in nucleotides. Since $^{33}P$ has the same chemical behavior as non - radioactive phosphorus, it can replace the phosphorus atom in the phosphate group of a nucleotide to make a radioactive nucleotide. Option A is incorrect as isotopes of an element are chemically similar. Option B is incorrect because not all isotopes of an element are radioactive. Option C is incorrect as the fact that it is an isotope does not prevent it from being used to make a nucleotide.

Answer:

D. Yes, because it can replace the phosphorus atom in the phosphate group.