Radioactive Decay

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Radioactive Decay
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How do we describe the rate of de-energization?

• Observations in Nature
• Decay / De-energization Occurs
• Number of Radioactive Nuclides decreases with
  time
• De-energization of a single nuclide is a
  statistical process
• Lets perform a simulation

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MM Simulation Rules

• DONT OPEN the packages until I give you
  instructions !!
• Carefully tear one end off the package.
• Pour the contents onto your desk carefully.
• Remove all the YELLOW pieces.
• Determine the total number remaining.
• Report this number to the data runner.
• Count those with the M UP and return them to
  the bag.
• Report this count to the data runner.
• Eliminate those not returned to the bag.
• Record total counts and plot the data on either
  linear or semi-log graph paper. (Optional Use
  both types to compare!!)
• Shake the bag, repeat steps 2, 5, 6, 7 until
  all MMs are gone.

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Next QuestionWhat have we observed?

• Decay / De-energization Occurs
• Number of Radioactive Nuclides decreases with
  time
• De-energization of a single nuclide is a
  statistical process

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Half-life

• Define
• Half-life

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Radioactive Decay on aLinear Scale
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Radioactive Decay on aSemi-Log Scale
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Summary of Concepts(Must Knows!)

• Radioactive Decay Law

• Decay appears linear on semi-log graph paper

• Half Life and the Radioactive Decay Constant

• Each type of nuclide has a unique half-life.