Solving Exponential Decay: 10,000 Years & Uranium II

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the remaining percentage of radioactive Uranium II after a specific time period, given its half-life. The subject area is exponential decay in the context of radioactive materials.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the relationship between half-life and the remaining mass of uranium, with one participant attempting an algebraic approach. Questions arise regarding the relevant equations for radioactive decay and the interpretation of the time interval in relation to the half-life.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of the problem. Some guidance has been offered regarding the importance of not providing complete solutions, and there is an acknowledgment of the algebraic approach being approximately correct.

Contextual Notes

There are reminders about the forum rules against posting complete solutions, indicating a focus on learning rather than simply providing answers. The original poster's attempt may lack clarity on the relevant equations needed for the problem.

amanaka2004
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Homework Statement



The half life of radioactive Uranium II is about 250,000 years. What percent of radioactive uranium will remain after 10,000 years?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
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for every 250000, there is 50% left from original mass
10000/250000=.04 of what?
[snipped]
There is an equation, but over here its night time and my brain is turned off, so i did it algebraicly
 
Last edited:
silvashadow, did you read the rules? Do not post complete solutions to homework problems. Our job is to help students learn. Simply giving the answers is not helping them.

Even more importantly, do not post incorrect solutions. The algebraic approach is approximately correct.

amanaka, do you know what the relevant equations are for radioactive decay?
 
D H said:
silvashadow, did you read the rules? Do not post complete solutions to homework problems. Our job is to help students learn. Simply giving the answers is not helping them.

Even more importantly, do not post incorrect solutions. The algebraic approach is approximately correct.

amanaka, do you know what the relevant equations are for radioactive decay?

I'm so sorry. Please forgive my incompetence.
 

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