Answer the following with reference to a parent–daughter radioactive pair :
CHEMISTRY · Subjective · AP · Chemistry · Atomic Structure and Properties · Atomic Structure and Properties
Problem
Answer the following with reference to a parent–daughter radioactive pair P→D:
(a) Define secular equilibrium and transient equilibrium.
(b) Using the meanings of half-life and activity, explain qualitatively (without detailed calculations) why secular equilibrium requires the half-life of the parent to be much larger than that of the daughter, whereas transient equilibrium requires them to be of the same order but unequal.
(c) Give one practical example (name of isotope pair) for each type of equilibrium and mention a situation in which such equilibrium is useful.