Radioactive tracers are used to study ion transport across cell membranes. The b

Question

Radioactive tracers are used to study ion transport across cell membranes. The beta-minus emitting isotope42K (t1/2= 12.4 h) has been particularly important for measuring the movement of potassium ions. A saline solution that contains the isotope bathes cells in a test tube, and the amount of42K that has accumulated inside the cells is measured after a short time. A sample of liquid extracted from the cells must have an activity of at least 50 Bq for an accurate measurement to be made. The activity of a sample just after extraction is600,000Bq. If a scientist wishes toconfirmthe result by measuring the sample a week later, how much activity willremain?
Bq

Explanation / Answer

A = 600000*e^(-ln2*7*24/12.4) =50.1 Bq

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