Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Radioactive decay

Radioactive decay — practice question

Radon-222 ($^{222}_{86}\text{Rn}$) is a radioactive element present in atmospheric air. Its decay constant is $2.1 \times 10^{-6}\,\text{s}^{-1}$.
(a(i))[2]

Define the term radioactive half-life.

(a(ii))[2]

Show that the half-life $t_{\frac{1}{2}}$ and the decay constant $\lambda$ are linked by $\lambda t_{\frac{1}{2}} = 0.693$.

(b)[4]

Radon-222 is judged to be an unacceptable health hazard when its activity exceeds $200\,\text{Bq}$ in $1.0\,\text{m}^3$ of air. Calculate the minimum mass of radon-222 in $1.0\,\text{m}^3$ of air for which the health hazard becomes unacceptable.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 8-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Time taken for the number of nuclei/activity to halve

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