- #1
phil ess
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Homework Statement
Suppose that a given radioactive element A decomposes into a second radioactive element B, and that B in turn decomposes into a third element C. The amount of A present is initially a0. The amounts of A and B present at a later time t are a and b respectively. If k1 and k2 are the reaction rates for the two chemical reactions, find b as a function of t.
Hint: Consider k1 and k2 to be positive, so, for example, one of the equations that you need is da/dt = rate in − rate out = −k1a. Also, you may assume k1 =/= k2.
Homework Equations
rate = kAmBn?
halflife = ln 2 / lambda ?
The Attempt at a Solution
Well this isn't like any other radioactive decay problem I've seen. Usually we're given initial conditions, or the half life, or something! I don't even know where to begin...
please help!