Is There an Equation to Determine Gamma Ray Frequency from Radioactive Decay?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the question of whether there is an equation to determine the energy or frequency of gamma rays emitted during radioactive decay for specific isotopes. It explores theoretical approaches and practical resources related to this topic.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about an equation for determining gamma ray energy or frequency from radioactive decay.
  • Another participant suggests calculating the mass difference between the parent isotope and the daughter particles to find the energy released, which is a logical approach.
  • A different participant notes that while there may be models to predict gamma frequencies and energies, consulting existing databases or resources is likely the most reliable method.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on a specific equation, and multiple viewpoints regarding the best approach to determine gamma ray frequencies and energies are presented.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve the limitations of the proposed methods or the dependence on specific isotopes and their decay processes.

sdg2010
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Readers,

Hi, I'm new here, and have a question that has piqued my interest, and have not found a solution elsewhere.

My question is as such: is there an equation to determine the energy or frequency of the gamma ray emitted as a byproduct of radioactive decay for a given isotope?

Thanks,

sdg2010
 
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Add up the masses of the daughter particles and subtract from source particle mass. The difference will be the mass converted to energy.
 
Thanks mathman. That seems to be the logical answer (which I missed).
 
I think to know the frequencies and energies of the specific gammas, though, the best way is to look it up. There may be a few models to help predict, but I'm not aware of those. I've found this to be a good source of radionuclide info.

http://ie.lbl.gov/toi/nucSearch.asp
 
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