Two atoms of an element with a half life of ten years

In summary, the concept of "half life" applies to large numbers of atoms and is not significant when dealing with only two atoms. However, the remaining atom will eventually decay with a 50% chance of decaying every 10 years. The odds of it lasting more than a few decades are slim.
  • #1
Calpalned
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On the other hand, what if we only have two atoms of an element with a half life of ten years. Then after then years, only one atom of that original element remains. What happens next? Is the lone surviving atom immutable?
 
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  • #2
"half life" is a statistical distribution that is applicable to large numbers of atoms. I don't think it's meaningful when you get down to a couple, but no, the remaining atom would decay eventually.

The odds of it decaying in the first 10 years are 50%. If it doesn't decay then, the odds of its decaying in the next 10 years is 50% ... this goes on until it decays so the chances of it lasting more than a few decades are slim
 
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Related to Two atoms of an element with a half life of ten years

1. How do you determine the half life of an element?

The half life of an element refers to the amount of time it takes for half of the initial quantity of the element to decay into a different element. This can be determined through experimentation and studying the decay rate of the element over time.

2. Why is the half life of an element important?

The half life of an element is important because it can help determine the stability and radioactivity of the element. It is also used to determine the age of rocks and fossils through radiometric dating.

3. Does the half life of an element change?

No, the half life of an element is a constant value and does not change. It is a unique characteristic of each element and can be used to identify and differentiate between elements.

4. What happens to the remaining atoms after the half life of an element?

After the half life of an element, half of the initial quantity of atoms will have decayed into a different element. The remaining half will continue to decay at the same rate until all of the atoms have decayed into a different element.

5. Can the half life of an element be manipulated or controlled?

No, the half life of an element is a natural property and cannot be manipulated or controlled. It is determined by the characteristics of the element and cannot be altered through external factors.

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