131k views
0 votes
Which graph best shows the radioactive decay of carbon-14

User Manfred
by
8.5k points

1 Answer

4 votes

Answer: When it comes to representing the radioactive decay of carbon-14, the most appropriate graph to use is an exponential decay graph.

Explanation: An exponential decay graph displays the decrease in the quantity of carbon-14 over time as it undergoes radioactive decay. The x-axis represents time, typically measured in years, while the y-axis represents the remaining amount of carbon-14, usually measured in terms of the percentage of the initial quantity or the number of carbon-14 atoms.

Initially, the graph starts with the maximum amount of carbon-14 at time zero, which is represented by 100% or the total number of carbon-14 atoms. As time progresses, the quantity of carbon-14 decreases in a predictable pattern.

In an exponential decay graph, the curve depicting the decay of carbon-14 starts steeply, indicating a rapid decrease in the beginning. As time goes on, the curve gradually becomes less steep, representing a slower rate of decay. This shape reflects the fact that carbon-14 has a half-life of approximately 5,730 years, meaning that it takes 5,730 years for half of the initial amount to decay.

User Ana Franco
by
8.5k points

No related questions found

Welcome to QAmmunity.org, where you can ask questions and receive answers from other members of our community.