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 assigned 10 October 2018 and due 20 October 2010.

Lecture notes

PDF quiz (download to computer before answering)
PDF Quiz Answers

Excel spread sheets:

Activity Calculator
Decay Calculator
Radionuclide ingrowth
Pu-Np ingrowth
²³⁶U production from neutron reaction

Additional web links

Readings Available from Library

Fundamentals of radiochemistry / Jean-Pierre Adloff, Robert Guillaumont, QD601.2 .A35 1993 

last update: Sunday 7 October, 2018