The first-order decay of radon has a half-life of 3.823 days. How many grams of radon decomposes after 5.55 days if the sample initially weighs 100.0 grams?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The decay of radon follows first-order kinetics, and the formula for the remaining amount after time t is N(t) = N0 * (1/2)^(t/T), where N0 is the initial amount, t is the time elapsed, and T is the half-life. After 5.55 days, the remaining radon is 100 * (1/2)^(5.55/3.823) ≈ 36.6 g. Therefore, the decomposed amount is 100 - 36.6 = 63.4 g.

The First-Order Decay of Radon Has a Half-Life of 3