If we accelerate a radioactive isotope of an element in a particle accelerator to a speed close to that of light, what would its observed rate of decay be compared to its rate of decay at rest?
A) faster
B) slower
C) infinite
D) zero

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to special relativity, time passes more slowly for a moving object relative to a stationary one. This effect is known as time dilation. As the isotope approaches the speed of light, its observed rate of decay will be slower compared to its rate of decay at rest. Therefore, option B is correct.

If We Accelerate a Radioactive Isotope of an Element in a Particle