Can I find experimental data for the decay of Iodine-131?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the search for experimental data on the radioactive decay of Iodine-131, particularly in the context of a mathematical assignment. Participants explore the feasibility of obtaining such data and its relevance to modeling radioactive decay, especially related to the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks experimental data for the decay of Iodine-131 to model its radioactive decay mathematically, aiming to derive a negative exponential function.
  • Another participant questions the practicality of collecting extensive experimental data on I-131 decay, suggesting that measuring the half-life may be more common.
  • Several participants share links to resources that provide decay data, although there is skepticism about whether the data is based on measurements or computed values.
  • There is a suggestion that while lifetime measurements exist, finding direct experimental data may require looking into specific publications or papers.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the availability and nature of experimental data for Iodine-131 decay. While some provide resources, others question the reliability of those resources and the practicality of obtaining raw measurement data.

Contextual Notes

There is uncertainty regarding the distinction between computed values and actual measurements in the provided resources. The discussion does not resolve whether sufficient experimental data exists for the decay of Iodine-131.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for students or researchers interested in radioactive decay modeling, particularly those focusing on Iodine-131 and its applications in nuclear science or health physics.

cj9
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I'm currently undergoing an assignment in maths were it is is necessary to apply mathematical concepts to aspects in reality. Hence, I have chosen to model the radioactive decay of iodine 131, however I am required to plot the data of the radioactive decay of iodine 131, in order to find the equation rather than using the half-life. Is it possible to find experimental data for its decay.

I intend to find the equation of the function by graphing the data in order to get a negative exponential function.

If it helps my assignment is relevant to radioactive materials (iodine 131) leaked in the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster.

Anything would be greatly appreciated

Thanks
 
Last edited:
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What do you mean by "find the equation"?
cj9 said:
Is it possible to find experimental data for its decay.
I doubt anyone collected a large sample of I-131 and then watched it decaying for months. That would be quite pointless.

There are publications measuring the half-life, did you search those?
 
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mfb said:
What do you mean by "find the equation"?
I doubt anyone collected a large sample of I-131 and then watched it decaying for months. That would be quite pointless.

There are publications measuring the half-life, did you search those?

Thanks for your response.

I intend to find the equation of the function by graphing the data in order to get a negative exponential function. Do you recommend any publications?

If it helps my assignment is relevant to radioactive materials (iodine 131) leaked in the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster.
Thanks
 
Last edited:
https://ehs.missouri.edu/rad/isotopedata/i-131decaytable.pdf

Zz.
 
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ZapperZ said:
https://ehs.missouri.edu/rad/isotopedata/i-131decaytable.pdf

Zz.

Much appreciated

What is that website in case I need data for other radioactive material.
 
cj9 said:
Much appreciated

What is that website in case I need data for other radioactive material.

Er... I found it using Google!

Zz.
 
Here is a directory of similar data sheets from the same website.

https://ehs.missouri.edu/rad/isotopedata.html
 
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Those tables look like computed values, not measurements.
 
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mfb said:
Those tables look like computed values, not measurements.
Is it difficult to find measurements?
 
  • #10
Someone has measured the lifetime, and there was probably more than one measurement. Just look for references to those papers to find experimental data.
 

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