Radioactive Chains: Parents and Children (UMAP)

In this module equations for radioactive decay are set up and solved. The solution functions are graphed and equilibrium and approximation are discussed. By the end of this module students will know: 1) the equations governing radioactive chains; 2) meanings of the terms transient, equilibrium, and secular equilibrum; and 3) approximations relevant to transient and secular equilibrium, and know the circumstances under which they are applicable.

Table of Contents:

1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 Radioactive Decay
1.2 Chains

2. SETTING UP THE EQUATION
2.1 Notation and Assumptions
2.2 The Equations

3. SOLVING THE EQUATIONS
3.1 Solving for N1(t)
3.2 Solving for N2(t)
3.3 Graphs of N1(t) and N2(t)

4. EQUILIBRIUM
4.1 What is Equilibrium?
4.2 Some Comments on Approximation
4.3 Transient Equilibrium
4.4 Secular Equilibrium
4.5 More Comments on Approximation

5. ANSWERS TO EXERCISES

REFERENCES

ABOUT THE AUTHORS