The half-life of a radioactive substance is 10 days. After 30 days, the fraction remaining undecayed is: MCQ with Answer and Explanation

The half-life of a radioactive substance is 10 days. After 30 days, the fraction remaining undecayed is:
A. 1/16
B. 1/8
C. 1/2
D. 1/3
Answer: Option B
Solution (By JKExamLibrary)
Number of half-lives n = total time / half-life = 30 days / 10 days = 3. Fraction remaining = (1/2)ⁿ = (1/2)³ = 1/8. This exponential decay law is fundamental in radioactivity. Memory tip: 'After n half-lives, fraction = 1/2ⁿ'. Competitive exams frequently test such calculations with varying time intervals. Always compute number of half-lives first. Note: Activity (decays per second) also reduces by same fraction. This problem assesses understanding of half-life concept beyond rote memorization.

This question belongs to: Science Physics

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