## Half-Life

$aR \to bP, Rate = -\frac{1}{a} \frac{d[R]}{dt} = \frac{1}{b}\frac{d[P]}{dt}$

Mike Vinci 2B
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### Half-Life

Could someone elaborate on half-life and its significance in this chapter? I have the equations to find half-life, but I'm confused about its relevance and application in the chapter.

Thanks,
Mike

Sarah Clemens 1B
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Joined: Fri Sep 29, 2017 7:03 am

### Re: Half-Life

You might be asked to calculate how much of a substance will be left after a specific amount of time has passed, in which case you could use the half life equation to answer

SPandya1F
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### Re: Half-Life

Half-Life is the time it takes for one-half of the atoms of a radioactive material to disintegrate. The "half" is an arbitrary amount that represents the amount disintegrated; it can be a "quarter-life" or a "fifth-life". It is useful in dating artifacts, treating patients, and calculating waste storage time.