What is the half-life of a sample of matter containing a radioactive element?
A) time needed for the radioactive atoms to build up half the energy needed to decay
B) half the time needed for the radioactive decay rate to double
C) time needed for half the radioactive atoms in the sample to decay
D) half the time needed for all the radioactive atoms in the sample to decay

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The half-life of a radioactive element is defined as the time required for half of the radioactive atoms in a sample to undergo decay. This is a fundamental concept in nuclear physics and radiometric dating.

What Is the Half-Life of a Sample of Matter Containing