Nuclear applications

Question 1

Radioactive half-life is not affected by ______________ (3)

Answer 1

temperature, physical or chemical state, any other influence of the environment outside the nucleus(other than direct particle interactions with the nucleus)

Question 2

If we have a reasonable estimate of the original composition of a radioactive sample, then the amounts of the radioisotopes present can provide __________

Answer 2

a measurement of the time elapsed

Question 3

def. type of radioactive dating that is only applicable to matter which was once living and presumed to be in equilibrium with the atmosphere

Answer 3

carbon dating

Question 4

How do we use carbon dating to get a measurement of the time elapsed?

Answer 4

By measuring the level of carbon-14 in the atmosphere(comparing its activity with the equilibrium level)

Question 5

What formula can you use to figure out time elapsed?

Answer 5

half-life formula

Question 6

how do we use radioactivity in medicine?

Answer 6

1. we can trace radioactive isotopes in the body, as only specific parts will absorb the radiation, which allows for medical imaging
2. we can also use radioactivity to destroy cancerous cells

Question 7

what do we call medical isotopes?

Answer 7

tracer isotopes