Radioactive Isotopes: Different Activity Rates Explained

In summary, it is not possible for two samples containing different radioactive isotopes to have the same activity due to the fact that each isotope has a unique rate of change. However, it is conceivable for there to be pairs of isotopes with identical decay rates. Even if this is the case, it is still possible to prepare two samples with identical activity at a given moment by varying the quantities. However, these samples will not maintain identical activity over time due to the different rates of decay.
  • #1
FlipStyle1308
267
0
I just want to make sure I just formulted a valid statement:

Two samples contain different radioactive isotopes. It is not possible for these samples to have the same activity because each isotope radioactive isotopes change their composition at different rates.

Anyone able to agree with this statement or counter it, saying why it is possible for these samples to have the same activity?
 
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  • #2
Are the samples pure, or are (for instance) the radioactive isotopes mixed with inert isotopes?
 
  • #3
I think I'm just talking about pure samples lol. Basically I just needed to make a statement on whether or not it's possible for two samples containing different radioactive isotopes to have the same activity and explain a bit.
 
  • #4
It is conceivable that there are pairs of isotopes with identical decay rates.

Regardless, for any two isotopes, it should nonetheless be possible to prepare two samples with identical activity (at a given moment) just by having different quantities.

These won't maintain identical activity, since the little sample is burning up quickly whilst the big slowly-decaying (longer half-life) sample will maintain its rate much longer.

Uh.. FlipStyle, aren't you concerned your instructor / peers will see this site?
 
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What are radioactive isotopes?

Radioactive isotopes are atoms that have an unstable nucleus, which means they emit radiation in the form of energy or particles. This process, known as radioactive decay, continues until the atom reaches a stable state.

Why do radioactive isotopes have different activity rates?

The activity rate of a radioactive isotope is determined by its half-life, which is the amount of time it takes for half of the atoms in a sample to decay. Isotopes with shorter half-lives have a higher activity rate because they decay more rapidly.

What factors can affect the activity rate of a radioactive isotope?

The activity rate of a radioactive isotope can be affected by various factors such as temperature, pressure, and the presence of other substances. Changes in these conditions can alter the rate of radioactive decay.

How is the activity rate of a radioactive isotope measured?

The activity rate of a radioactive isotope is measured using a unit called becquerel (Bq), which represents one decay event per second. Other common units used to measure activity rate include curie (Ci) and disintegrations per minute (dpm).

What are some practical applications of radioactive isotopes?

Radioactive isotopes have many practical applications in various fields such as medicine, energy production, and environmental science. For example, they are used in cancer treatments, to generate electricity in nuclear power plants, and to track the movement of pollutants in the environment.

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