To analyze the conclusions based on the information provided about curium-245, we should reference the concept of half-life. For a sample with a half-life of 8500 years, this means that after 8500 years, the amount of curium-245 will reduce to half of its original amount.
Given the original mass of curium-245 is 3.0 picograms:
- After 8500 years, we would expect the mass to be: \[ \text{Remaining mass} = \frac{3.0 , \text{pg}}{2} = 1.5 , \text{pg} \]
Now, let's examine each conclusion option:
A. After 8500 years, the curium-245 sample is anticipated to possess a mass of roughly 1.5 picograms.
- This statement is accurate and follows the principle of half-life.
B. After 8500 years, the curium-245 sample is expected to have a mass of approximately 6.0 picograms.
- This statement is incorrect, as it contradicts the half-life concept.
C. The age of the curium-245 sample must be at least 8500 years.
- This statement cannot be conclusively determined to be true based on the information provided. The sample could be younger than 8500 years.
D. The age of the curium-245 sample must be less than 8500 years.
- This statement also cannot be definitively determined from the provided information.
Based on this analysis, the correct conclusion that can be inferred is:
A. After 8500 years, the curium-245 sample is anticipated to possess a mass of roughly 1.5 picograms.
1 answer