Boundary of nuclear material sample

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of radioactive decay and its properties. It is mentioned that the full life of a radioactive sample is infinite, but the decay of a single atom is measurable and short. This leads to a contradiction, and further questions about the dimension of the decay constant λ are raised. It is determined that λ has units of inverse time, and it is also the inverse of the mean lifetime of the decaying species. Finally, the concept of "full life" is discussed and it is concluded that it is not a scientifically meaningful quantity.
  • #1
shivakumar06
69
0
we know that the full life of radioactive sample is infinity.
and if we take one radioactive atom in the sample then it's full is measurable and short. it changes when when it emits sub atomic particles. which contradict each other.
we need to know more. the dimension of radioactive constant λ raises an other question.
here N=N0eλt the is on of e so what is the dimension of λ.
 
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  • #2
shivakumar06 said:
we know that the full life of radioactive sample is infinity.
and if we take one radioactive atom in the sample then it's full is measurable and short. it changes when when it emits sub atomic particles. which contradict each other.
we need to know more. the dimension of radioactive constant λ raises an other question.
here N=N0eλt the is on of e so what is the dimension of λ.

λ is the decay constant with units if inverse time. If time t is in seconds, then λ is sec-1.

N(t) = N0 exp(-λt)

The decay constant is also the inverse of the mean lifetime of the decaying species.
 
  • #3
shivakumar06 said:
we know that the full life of radioactive sample is infinity.
and if we take one radioactive atom in the sample then it's full is measurable and short. it changes when when it emits sub atomic particles. which contradict each other.
we need to know more. the dimension of radioactive constant λ raises an other question.
here N=N0eλt the is on of e so what is the dimension of λ.

There is no such thing as "full life", as such a quantity would depend on the sample size and not the properties of the material. But if you wanted to, you could define the "full-life" of a sample as the number of half lives required before you are left with a single atom. This "full-life" would not be infinity, in fact the value would be equal to approximately 79 half lives per mol of material (Na/2^79 ~= 1).
 
  • #4
Radioactive decay is a stochastic process (at least for all observers). You can give an expectation value (and a distribution function) for the time until all atoms decayed, but the time in an experiment will be random.
 

Related to Boundary of nuclear material sample

1. What is the boundary of a nuclear material sample?

The boundary of a nuclear material sample refers to the physical or conceptual limits of the sample, which can vary depending on the type and size of the material. It can be defined as the outermost layer or surface of the material, or as the point where the material ends and the surrounding environment begins.

2. Why is it important to know the boundary of a nuclear material sample?

Understanding the boundary of a nuclear material sample is crucial for safety and security reasons. It helps to identify and control the movement of radioactive materials, prevent contamination, and ensure proper handling and storage of the sample. It also plays a role in nuclear waste management and disposal.

3. How is the boundary of a nuclear material sample determined?

The boundary of a nuclear material sample can be determined through various methods, including visual inspection, radiation detection, and chemical analysis. The type and sensitivity of the equipment used will depend on the specific properties of the material and the level of precision required.

4. Can the boundary of a nuclear material sample change over time?

Yes, the boundary of a nuclear material sample can change over time due to decay or degradation of the material. It can also be affected by external factors such as temperature, pressure, and exposure to different types of radiation. Regular monitoring and assessment of the sample can help determine if any changes have occurred.

5. Are there regulations or guidelines for handling the boundary of a nuclear material sample?

Yes, there are strict regulations and guidelines in place for handling the boundary of a nuclear material sample. These regulations are set by national and international agencies to ensure the safe and responsible management of nuclear materials. It is important for scientists and technicians to adhere to these regulations to prevent accidents and protect public health and the environment.

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