S
Stephen
Guest
The galaxy’s age can be estimated using the radioactive decay of Uranium (produced in supernovae). The initial abundances of the 2 isotopes U235 and U238 are expected to be in the ratio U235/ U238 ? 1.65. The present abundance ratio is ? 0.0072. The decay rates of the isotopes are ?(U235) = 0.97 ×10^9 year-1 and ?(U238) = 0.15×10^9 year-1. Estimate the age of the galaxy.
I know the answer is 6.6×109 years, and that I should use the formula N(t)=N(o)e^-(decay constant)(time), but I cant figure out how to use the equation in this question, since there are 2 constants.
I would really appreciate some help with this question. Thanks.
I know the answer is 6.6×109 years, and that I should use the formula N(t)=N(o)e^-(decay constant)(time), but I cant figure out how to use the equation in this question, since there are 2 constants.
I would really appreciate some help with this question. Thanks.