Q. 5.26 - An Introduction to General, Organic, and Biological Chemistry

Question

Two samples of a radioisotope were spilled in a nuclear laboratory. The activity of one sample was $8 \mathrm{kBq}$and the other $15 \mathrm{mCi}$. Which sample produced the higher amount of radiation?

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

$15 \mathrm{mCi}$ radiations is produces higher amount of radiation.

Step 1: Given information

Two samples of a radioisotope were spilled in a nuclear laboratory. The activity of one sample was 8 kBq and the other 15 mCi. 

Step 2: Explanation

Change the activity unit from $kBq$ to $mCi$, then compare the two as follows:

The following conversation factor is used to transform the unit of activity from $kBq$ to$mCi$:

$1 \mathrm{mCi}=37000 \mathrm{kBq}$

$15 \cancel{\mathrm{mCi}}\times \frac{37000 \mathrm{kBq}}{1 \cancel{\mathrm{mCi}}}=555,000 \mathrm{kBq}$

Determine which sample produced the most radiation by doing the following:

As a result, the sample that produces $15 mCi$ radiations produces more radiation.