Radon ²²²Rn is a radioactive gas produced as part of the natural decay chain of uranium. Because it is a gas, it can pose a health problem through inhalation, especially when high concentrations accumulate in homes. Suppose 5 × 10⁸ radon atoms are present in a basement at some time. If the basement is sealed and left, then how many radon atoms remain after a month 31 days)? The half-life of ²²²Rn is 3.82 days.)

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The number of half-lives that have passed in a month is:(31 days) / (3.82 days/half-life) = 8.11 half-livesThe fraction of atoms remaining after 8.11 half-lives is:(1/2)^8.11 = 0.0362The number of atoms remaining is:(5 × 10^8 atoms) * (0.0362) = 1.81 × 10^6 atoms

Radon 222Rn Is a Radioactive Gas Produced as Part of the Natural

Radon ²²²Rn Is a Radioactive Gas Produced as Part of the Natural