Both 238 U and 232 Th decay to stable isotopes of lead. 222 Rn (t 1/2 =

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Both 238U and 232Th decay to stable isotopes of lead. 222Rn (t1/2 = 3.8 d) is an intermediate nuclide in the 238U series. 218Rn (t1/2 = 56 s) is an intermediate in the 232Th decay series. In which series would diffusion of gaseous radon cause the greater error in the computed age of a rock (see Exercise 14.35)?

Data from exercise 14.35

The 238U series can be used to date minerals containing uranium by measuring the ratio of 238U to 206Pb, but all of the decay products have to remain in the mineral through several of their half-lives so that essentially all the 238U that decays become 206Pb. One of the decay products in this series is the noble gas, 222Rn. How would the experimentally determined age of the mineral be affected if some of the radon diffused from the rock?

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Chemistry For Engineering Students

ISBN: 9780357026991

4th Edition

Authors: Lawrence S. Brown, Tom Holme

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