The time taken for half the number of atoms of radioactive isotopes to missing is called:

Correct answer: D. Half-life

  • A. Average life
  • B. Mean life
  • C. Total life
  • D. Half-life

Explanation

Radioactive materials consist of unstable atoms that decay over time, emitting radiation in the process. The rate of decay for each radioactive isotope is unique and can be characterized by its half-life.

This question appeared on the NUMS 2023 paper, which you can sit online with every answer explained.

Written and checked by , contributorLast updated
Report an error

The more specific you are, the faster it gets fixed. A source beats an opinion.

Prefer email? [email protected]

About Half-life and Rate of Decay

Half-life is the time required for half the unstable nuclei in a sample to decay, and it remains constant for a particular radioactive nuclide. Questions use the exponential decay law, decay constant, activity, remaining quantity and mean life. Radioactive decay is random for individual nuclei but predictable for large samples.

Practise Nuclear Physics

1,257 free Nuclear Physics MCQs from Physics, each with the correct answer and an explanation. Unlimited attempts, no account needed.

Discussion

Stuck on an option, or know a faster way to get there? Ask or explain it here.

No comments yet. Be the first to explain this one.

Exams that ask Physics questions like this

Physics is on 16 papers prepared for on TestUstad, and all of them draw the same bank, so this question is worth knowing for every one of them.

More Half-life and Rate of Decay questions