Chapter 25, Problem 73FP

Interpretation Introduction

(a)

Interpretation:

The reason for radon-222 to not simply decay as fast as it is produced without reaching to the maximum concentration needs to be explained.

Concept introduction:

All the radioactive decay reactions follow first order kinetics. The expression for rate law can be represented as follows:

$N_t=N_o{e}^{-\lambda t}$

Here, $N_t$ is number of radioactive atom at time t, $N_o$ is number of radioactive atom initially present, $\lambda$ is decay constant and t is time.

Interpretation Introduction

(b)

Interpretation:

An expression for change in number of atoms of radon-222 related to number of atoms of radium-226 and decay constant of parent and daughter needs to be determined.

Concept introduction:

All the radioactive decay reactions follow first order kinetics. The expression for rate law can be represented as follows:

$N_t=N_o{e}^{-\lambda t}$

Here, $N_t$ is number of radioactive atom at time t, $N_o$ is number of radioactive atom initially present, $\lambda$ is decay constant and t is time.

Interpretation Introduction

(c)

Interpretation:

The time taken for the amount of radon-222 to reach a maximum value needs to be determined.

Concept introduction:

All the radioactive decay reactions follow first order kinetics. The expression for rate law can be represented as follows:

$N_t=N_o{e}^{-\lambda t}$

Here, $N_t$ is number of radioactive atom at time t, $N_o$ is number of radioactive atom initially present, $\lambda$ is decay constant and t is time.