Radioactive decay and half life?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on analyzing radioactive decay data, specifically the relationship between activity and time, and identifying sources of error. The user has successfully calculated the half-life as 15.0 minutes but notices discrepancies between predicted and observed activity at longer times. They express uncertainty about the reasons for these deviations and seek assistance in identifying potential sources of error in their data. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding the accuracy of measurements and the reliability of the decay formula used. Overall, the user is looking for insights to improve the accuracy of their analysis.
kraphysics
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Homework Statement


I have some data for "Activity(Bq * 10^4)" and "time". I have already found the half life and everything but I can't seem to see any sources of error in the data

Homework Equations


I need sources of error.


The Attempt at a Solution


I said, the half life matches the activity well but then as the time increases, the predictions using the formula N= No((1/2)^t/t(1/2)) and half life are true for some points but later it gets slightly off. I don't know why this happens..
 
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kraphysics said:

Homework Statement


I have some data for "Activity(Bq * 10^4)" and "time".
How can you expect anyone to understand what you mean by that?

I have already found the half life and everything but I can't seem to see any sources of error in the data

Homework Equations


I need sources of error.


The Attempt at a Solution


I said, the half life matches the activity well but then as the time increases, the predictions using the formula N= No((1/2)^t/t(1/2)) and half life are true for some points but later it gets slightly off. I don't know why this happens..
 
HallsofIvy said:
How can you expect anyone to understand what you mean by that?

Time (min) Activity (Bq x10^4)
0 8.00
10 5.04
20 3.17
30 2.01
40 1.26
50 0.790
60 0.490
70 0.320
80 0.195
90 0.128

From graphing the data, I have found half life to be 15.0 minutes.
 
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