Calculating Proton Decay in a Swimming Pool

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the expected time between proton decays in an Olympic-size swimming pool, given the mean lifetime of protons is approximately 1032 years. Participants emphasize the importance of determining the pool's volume to ascertain the number of water molecules and protons present. By applying the formula M=pV, where M is mass, p is density, and V is volume, users can estimate the decay rate using principles of radioactive decay. The conclusion is that understanding these calculations is essential for estimating proton decay events in a specified volume of water.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, particularly radioactive decay.
  • Familiarity with the formula M=pV for calculating mass from density and volume.
  • Knowledge of the properties of water, including its density.
  • Basic mathematical skills for performing volume and decay rate calculations.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of radioactive decay and half-life calculations.
  • Learn how to calculate the volume of irregular shapes and apply it to real-world scenarios.
  • Explore the implications of grand unification theories in particle physics.
  • Investigate experimental methods for detecting proton decay in various mediums.
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics, educators teaching particle physics concepts, and researchers interested in the implications of proton decay and grand unification theories.

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Homework Statement



Grand unification theories predict that the proton has a long but finite lifetime. Current experiments based on detecting the decay of protons in water infer that this lifetime is at least 10^32 years. Assume 10^32 years is, in fact, the mean lifetime of the proton. Estimate the expected time between proton decays that occur in the water of a filled Olympic-size swimming pool. An Olympic-size swimming pool is 100m x 25m x 2.0m.

Homework Equations



not sure

The Attempt at a Solution



I am not really sure what the question is asking. Clearly the volume of the pool matters, otherwise it probably wouldn't be given, but I don't know where to start. Can anybody offer an explanation as to where I should start. Any help would be much appreciated.
 
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The volume of the water will tell you how much water there is (M=pV, and you know the density of water), from there you can tell how many molecules of water there are and therefore how many protons there are. Then you can tell how many protons decay per second using basic radioactive decay laws.
 

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