Strontium compounds are widely used in the production of cathode ray tubes for color televisions and computer monitors, where they help block X-ray emissions. In pyrotechnics, strontium salts produce bright red flames and are commonly used in flares and fireworks. Strontium is also used in the refining of zinc to remove impurities such as lead. In medicine, radioactive strontium-89 is used in palliative treatments for bone pain caused by metastatic cancer, while stable strontium supplements, like strontium ranelate, are studied for supporting bone health and reducing osteoporosis risk. Strontium aluminate is employed in glow-in-the-dark materials for its strong, long-lasting phosphorescence. Additionally, strontium isotopes are utilized in scientific research, such as geochronology to determine the age of rocks and fossils.