How Does Radioactivity Relate to the Number of Atoms in a Graph?

In summary, the shape of an "Activity versus Number of Atoms present" graph would be a decreasing curve, as activity is proportional to the number of undecayed atoms with a negative sign. This is represented by the equation A = -λN, where activity (A) is equal to the negative of the decay constant (λ) multiplied by the number of undecayed atoms (N).
  • #1
ehabmozart
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What would be the shape of an "Activity versus Number of Atoms present" graph look like... We know that A=-λN ... They are propotional but there is a negative sign.. What would be the graph?? Thanks in advance!
 
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  • #2
Activity is proportional to the number of atoms with a positive constant.
 
  • #3
ehabmozart said:
We know that A=-λN ... They are propotional but there is a negative sign.

Maybe your book does it differently, but to me, activity is a positive quantity so A = λN. Over time, the number of undecayed atoms decreases at a rate that equals the (negative of the) activity, and this is where the minus sign comes in: dN/dt = -A = -λN.
 

FAQ: How Does Radioactivity Relate to the Number of Atoms in a Graph?

What is radioactivity?

Radioactivity is the spontaneous decay of unstable atomic nuclei, resulting in the emission of particles and/or electromagnetic radiation.

How are radioactivity and half-life related?

Half-life is the time it takes for half of the atoms in a radioactive substance to decay. The rate of decay and half-life are inversely related, meaning the shorter the half-life, the faster the decay and the more radioactive a substance is.

What are the units of measurement for radioactivity?

The most commonly used unit for measuring radioactivity is the Becquerel (Bq), which represents one decay event per second. Other units include the Curie (Ci) and the disintegration per minute (dpm).

How do scientists use graphs to study radioactivity?

Scientists use graphs, specifically a type called a decay curve, to track the rate of decay of a radioactive substance over time. This allows them to determine the half-life and other important characteristics of the substance.

What are some practical applications of studying radioactivity?

Studying radioactivity has many practical applications, including medical imaging and cancer treatment, nuclear power generation, and carbon dating. It also helps us understand the natural processes of the Earth and the universe.

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