Chapter 20, Problem 1SEPP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The rate constant for the decay of $\text{P}\text{u}$ is to be determined.

Concept introduction:

Rate constant is the coefficient of proportionality related to the rate of the chemical reaction at certain temperature.

Nearly all radioactive decay is of first order and the rate constant is given as:

$k\text{ = }\frac{0.693}{t_{1/2}}$

Here, $t_{1/2}$

is the half -life of the radioactive substance.