Chapter 19, Problem 19.88SP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

There are many units to represent the disintegrations in a radioactive reaction, whose relation is as-
4 pCi = 9 disintegrations/minute (dpm) = 70,500 radioactive atoms (3 x 10-17 g)

Concept introduction:

Radon is soluble in water.
Radon is dissolved into water as it passes over rocks and through soil.
4 pCi = 9 disintegrations/minute (dpm) = 70,500 radioactive atoms (3 x 10-17 g)
Given:

Maximum level of radon in drinking water = $4.0pCi=4.0\times {10}^{-12}Ci$ per millilitre

Half-life of $Rn$ \left(t_{\frac{1}{2}}\right)$$=3.8 days

To determine:

1. The disintegrations occurring per minute in 1 mL of water at the maximum radon level.
2. $Rn$atoms present in 1 mL of the water.