1. What is Radioactive Decay?

Radioactive decay is the process by which an unstable atomic nucleus loses energy by radiation. The decay follows an exponential law described by the half-life of the radioactive substance.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the radioactive decay equation:

Where:

• \( A \) — Current activity (Bq)
• \( A_0 \) — Initial activity (Bq)
• \( t \) — Elapsed time
• \( T \) — Half-life (same time units as t)

Explanation: The equation shows how activity decreases exponentially over time, with the rate determined by the half-life.

3. Importance of Decay Calculation

Details: Accurate decay calculations are crucial for radiation safety, nuclear medicine, radiocarbon dating, and nuclear power applications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter initial activity in becquerels (Bq), elapsed time and half-life in consistent time units. All values must be positive.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a becquerel (Bq)?
A: One becquerel is defined as one radioactive decay per second. It's the SI unit of radioactivity.

Q2: How does half-life affect decay rate?
A: Substances with shorter half-lives decay more rapidly. After one half-life, activity is halved; after two half-lives, it's quartered, etc.

Q3: Can this calculate remaining quantity?
A: Yes, if you input initial quantity instead of activity, the same equation applies to remaining quantity.

Q4: What time units should I use?
A: Any consistent units (seconds, hours, years) as long as t and T use the same units.

Q5: Is this accurate for all radioactive materials?
A: Yes, this exponential decay law applies to all radioactive isotopes, though some have more complex decay chains.