Question

as you read, remember that:

• atoms are made up of protons, neutrons, and electrons.
• protons and neutrons are found in the nucleus, while electrons orbit around the nucleus.

use the drop-down menu to correctly complete the statement.
dropdown are used as a beam to treat cancer.
options:
protons
neutrons
electrons

Explanation:

Identify the medical application of subatomic particles

Protons are used in a specialized form of external beam radiotherapy called proton beam therapy to treat cancer. Because of their mass, protons can be targeted to release their energy precisely at the tumor site (the Bragg peak), minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

Evaluate the options

• Protons: Widely used in proton therapy to target and destroy cancer cells.
• Neutrons: Used in neutron capture therapy, but not typically referred to as a standard "beam to treat cancer" in this introductory context.
• Electrons: Used in electron beam therapy for superficial tumors, but protons are the classic example of a heavy charged particle beam used for deep-seated tumors. Protons is the standard correct answer for this curriculum question.

Answer:

Use the drop-down menu to correctly complete the statement:

<blank>Protons</blank> are used as a beam to treat cancer.