An important component of smoke detectors is the $\alpha$ emitter americium-241 which has a half-life of 432 years. What is the rate constant for the decay of ²⁴¹Am?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The rate constant (k) for radioactive decay is given by $k = \frac{0.693}{t_{1/2}}$, where $t_{1/2}$ is the half-life. Substituting $t_{1/2} = 432$ years gives $k = \frac{0.693}{432} \approx 1.60 \times 10^{-3}$ yr$^{-1}$.

An Important Component of Smoke Detectors Is The α\alphaα Emitter Americium-241 Which Has a Half-Life of 432 Years

An Important Component of Smoke Detectors Is The $\alpha$ Emitter Americium-241 Which Has a Half-Life of 432 Years