Radioactive decay

Decay data: ENSDF (NNDC) via IAEA NDS
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Find the activity remaining after a period of decay, work backward to an earlier activity, or calculate the time needed to reach a target. You can also find a half-life from two activities and the time between them.

The calculator uses the handbook relationship λ = 0.693/T½, where 0.693 approximates ln 2. Activity and time inputs have separate unit selectors. The member worked solution shows the sign change for back-decay and the natural logarithm used when solving for time.

Results, input checks, source references and accuracy notes are free. Paid membership adds the step-by-step solution and calculator keystrokesKey sequences for 14 calculator optionsScientific — commonly exam-legalTI-30XaTI-30X IIS / IIBTI-30XS MultiViewTI-34 MultiViewTI-36X ProCasio fx-991EX ClassWizCasio fx-115ES PlusCasio fx-300ES PlusSharp EL-W516TOn screen, no handheld neededRadCon calculator (on screen)Graphing / programmable — practice at homeTI-84 Plus CE (and TI-83/84 family)Casio fx-9750GIII / fx-9860GIIIHP 35sNot sure which you haveGeneric scientificChoose the calculator you use to practice. Check with your testing site which models are allowed in the exam..

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Use this calculator for study and reference. For operational radiological work, follow your site’s controlled procedures and approved references.

Gamma dose rate (6CEN)
Inverse square law
Line source
Stay time
Shielding (HVL / TVL)
Effective half-life
Unit conversion
DOE Core Handbook
Read all 13 modules online, with page links and correction notes.
Chart of the Nuclides
Look up half-lives, decay modes and isotopes.
Periodic table
Find element symbols, atomic weights and natural isotopes.
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