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Radioactive Decay Formula:
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Alpha and beta decay are two types of radioactive decay processes where unstable atomic nuclei release energy by emitting particles. Alpha decay involves emission of alpha particles (helium nuclei), while beta decay involves emission of beta particles (electrons or positrons).
The calculator uses the fundamental radioactive decay formula:
Where:
Explanation: The activity represents the number of decays per second and is directly proportional to both the decay constant and the number of radioactive atoms present.
Details: Accurate calculation of radioactive decay is crucial for nuclear medicine, radiation safety, archaeological dating, nuclear power generation, and scientific research involving radioactive materials.
Tips: Enter the decay constant in s⁻¹, number of radioactive atoms, and select the decay type. All values must be positive numbers for accurate calculation.
Q1: What is the difference between alpha and beta decay?
A: Alpha decay emits alpha particles (2 protons + 2 neutrons), reducing atomic number by 2 and mass number by 4. Beta decay emits electrons or positrons, changing a neutron to proton or vice versa.
Q2: How is decay constant related to half-life?
A: Decay constant (λ) and half-life (T½) are related by: λ = ln(2) / T½, where T½ is the time for half the atoms to decay.
Q3: What units are used for activity?
A: The SI unit is Becquerel (Bq) = 1 decay per second. The traditional unit is Curie (Ci) = 3.7×10¹⁰ Bq.
Q4: Can this calculator be used for any radioactive isotope?
A: Yes, the fundamental formula applies to all radioactive isotopes regardless of decay type, as long as you know the decay constant and number of atoms.
Q5: What factors affect decay constant?
A: Decay constant is unique to each radioactive isotope and is unaffected by external conditions like temperature, pressure, or chemical environment.