Chapter 11, Problem 77AP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The fraction of the initial concentration of each isotope remains after 10 years should be calculated. The amount of radiation from each of these isotopes should be compared with the initial amount. The handling of each isotope to minimize the risk of exposure should be explained by applying the green chemistry principles.

Concept Introduction: All the radioactive reactions follow first order kinetics, thus, the rate equation will be as follows:

  

Here, k is rate constant; t is time, is initial concentration and is concentration at time t.

The half life of the reaction is related to rate constant as follows:

  

Here, is half-life time, at which initial concentration becomes half of its initial value.