What is the half-life of C-11?

The half-life of Carbon-11 (C-11) is indeed 20.3 minutes. This relatively short half-life makes C-11 a valuable isotope in positron emission tomography (PET) imaging, as it allows for the use of radiopharmaceuticals that can be produced and utilized in a timely manner. The half-life corresponds to the time it takes for half of a sample of C-11 to decay, which is crucial for planning the timing of imaging and ensuring that the radiotracer is still active and can be effectively used during a PET scan.

In clinical practice, the short half-life of C-11 means that it is often produced in cyclotrons and used immediately for imaging, which is ideal for certain types of studies such as those involving metabolic processes or receptor targeting in oncology, neurology, and cardiology. The rapid decay also requires efficient handling and logistical planning in the facilities that produce and utilize these isotopes.