Discover new perspectives and gain insights with IDNLearn.com's diverse answers. Our platform provides accurate, detailed responses to help you navigate any topic with ease.

A radioactive substance decays exponentially: The mass at time t is m(t) = m(0)e^kt, where m(0) is the initial mass and k is a negative constant. The mean life M of an atom in the substance is
[infinity]
M = âk â« te^kt dt.
0

For the radioactive carbon isotope, 14C, used in radiocarbon dating, the value of k is -0.000121. Find the mean life of a 14C atom.


Sagot :

Answer:

mean life = 8264.5 s

Step-by-step explanation:

k = - 0.000121

The relation is given by

[tex]m = mo e^{kt}[/tex]

Now, the mean life is the life time for which the sample retains.

The mean life is the reciprocal of the decay constant.  

The relation between the mean life and the decay constant is

[tex]\tau =\frac{1}{k}\\\\\tau = \frac{1}{0.000121} = 8264.5 seconds[/tex]

Your participation is crucial to us. Keep sharing your knowledge and experiences. Let's create a learning environment that is both enjoyable and beneficial. Your questions find clarity at IDNLearn.com. Thanks for stopping by, and come back for more dependable solutions.