Rate of energy release by Polonium-210

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the calculation of power release from Polonium-210, specifically using the formula P = Activity x Energy. The activity is measured in becquerels (Bq), representing the number of nuclei decaying per second, while the energy released per decay is converted from MeV to joules using the factor 1.6 × 10-19. The final result of 67.8 W is derived from multiplying the activity (8×1013 Bq) by the energy per decay (5.3×106 MeV converted to joules).

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  • Understanding of radioactive decay and activity in becquerels (Bq)
  • Knowledge of energy conversion from MeV to joules
  • Familiarity with power calculations in physics
  • Basic grasp of nuclear physics concepts
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  • Research the principles of radioactive decay and its measurement in Bq
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In the mark scheme they have done
P = (8×1013) × 5.3 ×106(1.6 × 10-19) = 67.8 W
I don't understand why they have done this?

How does Activity x Energy= Power ?
 
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"Activity" (in Bq) is the number of nuclei that decay per second.
"Energy" is defined as the energy per nucleus released. As defined in the answer here, the units after the conversion will be in joules (MeV * 1.6 × 10-19 = Joules).

Hence,
(number of nuclei / second)*(joules / number of nuclei) = (joules / second) = watts

Make sense?
 

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