Fall 2017: RDCH 702 Lecture 6 Decay Kinetics

This lecture covers the fundamental equations that describe the decay of radionuclides; covered in two parts. Basic equations and their utility are presented. The implications on error from counting is provided.  Equations for mixtures, equilibrium, and branching of radionuclides are covered.  The use of a program to solve the Bateman equation is presented. The use of cross sections in determining production rates are covered. Saturation in isotope production due to the decay of the daughter is described. Discussion of natural radiation and dating are given. Examples are provided using the equations under a host of conditions. These include examples for dating from ²³⁸U, ¹⁴C, and the Oklo reactor. Lecture 1 is 44 minutes, lecture 2 is 31 minutes.  The PDF quiz is due 21 October 2017.