Lecture 6 Part 2: Decay Kinetics

The second part of the decay kinetics lectures focuses on utilizing the described equations.  The lecture begins with a description of parent-daughter decay, with examples from the natural actinide decay series.   Relationships between the parent and daughter isotopes is based on half life differences.  A generalized equation to calculate relative amounts of parent and daughter at any time is provided.  Equations related to expanded decay chains with more than 2 members is provided, emphasizing the Bateman equation.  The use of a program that calculated the decay chain member is given.  Dating with radionuclides is given as a final example of equation utilization.