At death, a nobleman in ancient Egypt was mummified and his body contained 1.4×10-3gof K40(t1/2=1.25×109yr),1.2×10-8gof C14(t1/2=5730yr), and 4.8×10-14g of H3(t1/2=12.26yr). Which nuclide would give the most accurate estimate of the mummy’s age? Explain

Short Answer

Expert verified

Carbon-14 which has a half-life of 5730 years would be the best choice.

Step by step solution

01

Definition of half-life

Half-life in nuclear chemistry refers to the time that gets consumed when the substance’s concentration lowers to half or 50% of the concentration. It is represented as t1/2.

02

Explanation for the most accurate estimate of the mummy’s age.

The age of Egyptian mummies exists thousand years ago so the best choice is an isotope that has a half-life of a few thousand years ago. Carbon-14 is the nuclide that has a half-life of 5730 years, and it would be the best choice.

Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!

  • Full Textbook Solutions

    Get detailed explanations and key concepts

  • Unlimited Al creation

    Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...

  • Ads-free access

    To over 500 millions flashcards

  • Money-back guarantee

    We refund you if you fail your exam.

Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with Vaia!

One App. One Place for Learning.

All the tools & learning materials you need for study success - in one app.

Get started for free

Study anywhere. Anytime. Across all devices.

Sign-up for free