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Radioactivity And Half-Life Modeling

Kit #450
$148.50
Radioactivity And Half-Life Modeling

Students simulate and measure radioactive decay by using simulats® (simulated radioactive atoms). They then use their data to create decay graphs and determine the half-life. To extend their understanding, they use known half-lives of actual radioisotopes to estimate the ages of ancient artifacts or fraction of the isotope remaining in those artifacts.

Details at a Glance

  • 1-2 Days | 1-2 ~50 minute class periods
  • 1 Activity
  • Accommodates unlimited classes, each with 15 groups of 2 students
  • All materials are non-consumable
  • Includes digital resources

Scientific Concepts

•Some elements have unstable radioactive isotopes (radioisotopes) that decay over time into different elements.
•Half-life is the time it takes for half of the atoms of a sample of radioisotopes to decay.
•A radioisotope’s half-life is constant and independent of sample size.
•Different radioisotopes have different half-lives, ranging from under 1 second to millions of years.
•The process of radiometric dating uses radioisotopes to estimate the age of artifacts from the past.
KEY VOCABULARY: atom, element, isotope, radiometric dating, decay, half-life, radioisotope, sub-atomic particle

Guides & Student Sheets

Our kits and modules provide you with everything you need so you can open, review, and teach the material confidently the next day.

  • Full downloadable Teacher Guide with background information, detailed instruction, example data and answers
  • Downloadable Student Sheets with age appropriate background information, full procedure(s), and analysis questions
  • All materials necessary to carry out the investigation
  • Safety Data Sheets

Kit Components

  • 1 Teachers Guide
  • 30 Student Worksheets and Guides with data chart
  • 15 Simulated radioactive atoms (simulats), plastic, sets
  • 15 Shakers