The beta decay of cesium-137 has a half-life of 30.0 years.How many years must pass to reduce a 25 mg sample of cesium 137 to 8.7 mg?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The decay formula is N(t) = N0 * (1/2)^(t/T), where N0 is the initial amount, N(t) is the remaining amount, t is time, and T is the half-life. Solving for t when N0 = 25 mg, N(t) = 8.7 mg, and T = 30 years gives approximately 46 years.

The Beta Decay of Cesium-137 Has a Half-Life of 30