Exponential and logarithmic models

Question

The half-life of Palladium-100 is 4 days. After 24 days a sample of Palladium-100 has been reduced to a mass of 1 mg.

Answer 1

A(t) = A₀(1/2)^t/n   where:

• A(t) = the amount of Palladium left after t days = 1 g
• A₀ = the starting amount of Palladium
• t = number of days = 24
• n = half-life period = 4 days

 

1 = A₀(1/2)^24/4

1 = A₀(1/2)⁶

(1/2)^-6 = A₀

64 g = A₀