A breeder reactor converts the relatively stable uranium 238 into the isotope plutonium 239. After 15 years it is determined that 0.043% of the initial amount A0 of the plutonium has disintegrated.

Question.

A breeder reactor converts the relatively stable uranium 238 into the isotope plutonium 239. After 15 years it is determined that 0.043% of the initial amount A₀ of the plutonium has disintegrated. Find the half-life of this isotope if the rate of disintegration is proportional to the amount remaining.

 

Solution:

 

0.043% of total amount has disintegrated i.e. remains

 

Put above in

 

Half life:

years