Suppose that a particular sample of wood contains 10²⁰ atoms of the radioactive isotope ¹⁴C. The half-life of ¹⁴C is about 6000 years. Approximately how long will it take for all the ¹⁴C atoms to decay to ¹⁴N? A) infinite amount of time B) 12,000 years C) 3000 years D) 6000 years

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Radioactive decay is a process that does not have a definite end as it is asymptotic, meaning the quantity of the radioactive isotope approaches zero but never actually reaches it. Therefore, it would take an infinite amount of time for all atoms of a radioactive isotope to decay.

Suppose That a Particular Sample of Wood Contains 1020 Atoms

Suppose That a Particular Sample of Wood Contains 10²⁰ Atoms