Radioactive Decay
 

Radioactive Decay problem 9


Polonium-211 () decays by alpha emission to form a stable isotope of lead (Pb).


  • Complete the equation for this decay.




  • The variation with time of the number of unstable nuclei in a sample of polonium-211 is shown in the graph below.




    At time , the sample contains only polonium-211.


    • Use the graph above to determine the decay constant of polonium-211. Give a unit with your answer.


    • Use your answer in (b)(i) to calculate the activity at time of the sample of polonium-211.


  • Each decay releases an alpha particle with energy .


    • Calculate, in , the total amount of energy given to alpha particles that are emitted between time and time .


    • Suggest why the total amount of energy released by the decay process between time and time is greater than your answer in (c)(i).


 

main author and content editor: Ebenezer Famadewa