A pure sample of tritium, ³H, was prepared and sealed in a container for a number of years. Tritium undergoes β decay with a half-life of 12.32 years. How long has the container been sealed if analysis of the contents shows there are 5.25 mol of ³H and 6.35 mol of 3He present?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The initial amount of tritium was 5.25 + 6.35 = 11.6 mol. Using the decay formula N = N0 * (1/2)^(t/T), where N is the remaining amount, N0 is the initial amount, t is time, and T is the half-life, we solve for t: 5.25 = 11.6 * (1/2)^(t/12.32). Solving gives t ≈ 14.1 years.

A Pure Sample of Tritium, 3H, Was Prepared and Sealed

A Pure Sample of Tritium, ³H, Was Prepared and Sealed