Rate of emission of alpha particle in uranium decay

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating the emission rate of alpha particles from uranium-238 undergoing decay into thorium-234. The user initially uses a half-life of 109 years to find the activity, resulting in an emission rate of approximately 5.56 x 10^5 Bq. However, it is pointed out that the half-life value is incorrect; the accurate half-life is 4.468 x 10^9 years. The user acknowledges this error and plans to adjust the calculation accordingly. The conversation emphasizes the importance of using the correct half-life for accurate decay rate calculations.
songoku
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Homework Statement


U - 238 is undergoing alpha emission into Th - 234. U - 238 has half – life of 109 years. Calculate the emission rate of alpha when uranium has mass of 10 grams

Homework Equations


A = λN
A = A0 (1/2)n , n = t / half - life

The Attempt at a Solution


Not sure how to do it but here is my attempt:

Rate of emission of alpha = rate of decay of uranium = activity of uranium.

mass = 10 gram --> number of particle of uranium = 10/238 x 6.02 x 1023 = 2.529 x 1022

half - life = 109 years = 3.154 x 1016 s

A = ln 2 / (3.154 x 1016) x 2.529 x 1022 = 5.56 x 105 Bq

Is this correct? Thanks
 
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The given half life is wrong, but if you use this wrong value it is correct.
 
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I searched through google and found out that the half - life should be 4.468 x 109 years. So I only need to change the value of half - life.

Thank you mfb
 
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