Question detail
Explain why it is impossible to predict when an individual unstable nucleus will decay.
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
Question
Type
exam_style
Style
Topic
Atoms and nuclear radiation
Question
Explain why it is impossible to predict when an individual unstable nucleus will decay.
Answer
It is impossible to predict when an individual unstable nucleus will decay because radioactive decay is a random process. Each nucleus has a certain probability of decaying over a specific time period, but the exact moment of decay cannot be determined for any single nucleus.
Explanation
This question assesses the understanding of the random nature of radioactive decay. It requires students to explain the inherent unpredictability of decay events, reinforcing the concept that while decay rates can be measured for large samples, individual nuclei behave randomly.
Common mistake
Subtracting Background Count Rate
Students often forget to subtract the background count rate from the measured count rate, leading to inaccurate results.
Always remember to subtract the background count rate from the measured count rate to find the true count rate from the radioactive source.
Related flashcards
Flashcard 1 of 5
Related practice questions
Question 1 of 5
Choose an answer, get feedback, then move sideways through the set.