In PET scans, a radioactive isotope, fluorodeoxyglucose, emits subatomic particles called _____ as it decays.

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PET scans use a radioactive isotope called fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) which emits positrons as it decays. Positrons are subatomic particles with the same mass as an electron but with a positive charge. The FDG is injected into the patient’s bloodstream and is absorbed by organs and tissues in the body. The positrons emitted by the FDG collide with electrons in the body, producing gamma rays which are detected by the PET scanner. This allows for the production of detailed 3D images of the body's metabolic processes.

In PET Scans, a Radioactive Isotope, Fluorodeoxyglucose, Emits Subatomic Particles