How to determine the half lives of any isotope?

[MTd2]

Hi People!

The half-lives of elements seem to follow some rules of thumbs, but the exact or even order of magnitude for most cases it seem quite random. So, is there any numerical method to figure that out?

 

[mathman]

No. Half-lives of nuclides are determined experimentally. There is some general theory which can predict order of magnitude, but no specifics.

 

[MTd2]

What is this general theory?

 

[mathman]

What is this general theory?

Liquid drop model. It gives a rough idea of neutron to proton ratio needed for stability.

 

[MTd2]

But that s way too rough! I was thinking in something that could predict instable Isotopes in a long sequence of stable elements like Sn113 and Sn121 as well their approximate half lives, like the order of magnitude.

 

[Vanadium 50]

Sorry if you think it's too rough, but it is what it is.

 

[MTd2]

I see. So, thanks anyway. I ve been trying to find some tool, because I am not experience in numerical estimations for nuclei.

 

[FourierFaux]

But that s way too rough! I was thinking in something that could predict instable Isotopes in a long sequence of stable elements like Sn113 and Sn121 as well their approximate half lives, like the order of magnitude.

If you can come up with a better model... it would be a great way to get your name out there...