Chapter 20, Problem 24E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The percentage of a stored sample of the isotope of bismuth, ${}_{83}^{214}\text{Bi}$, that would be lost due to radioactive decay in a $551\text{-}$ second period is to be stated.

Concept introduction:

The elements whose nucleus decays spontaneously are known as radioactive elements. The decay is accompanied by the emission of alpha particles, beta particles, and gamma rays. All the elements which have an atomic number greater than $83$ are radioactive. The half life of a radioactive substance is defined as the time taken by half of its atoms to decay.