The given function represents the decay of a radioactive substance over time. The equation Q(t) = 100e^(-1/4t) represents the quantity of the substance at time t in years.
In the function, e is the mathematical constant known as Euler's number, which is approximately equal to 2.718. The negative sign indicates a decay process, as the quantity of the substance decreases over time.
The decay constant is represented by -1/4. This value determines the rate at which the radioactive substance decays. A higher absolute value of the decay constant means a faster rate of decay.
To find the quantity of the substance at a specific time, substitute the desired value for t in the function Q(t). For example, to find the quantity after 2 years, substitute t = 2:
Q(2) = 100e^(-1/4 * 2)
= 100e^(-1/2)
≈ 100(0.6065)
≈ 60.65
Therefore, the quantity of the radioactive substance after 2 years would be approximately 60.65 units.
The quantity of a radioactive substance decays according to the function Q (t) = 100e -1/4. where t represents time in years
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