A nuclear explosion has taken place leading to increase in concentration of in nearby areas. concent — Nuclear Chemistry and Radioactivity Chemistry Question
Question
A nuclear explosion has taken place leading to increase in concentration of $\text{C}^{14}$ in nearby areas. $\text{C}^{14}$ concentration is $C_1$ in nearby areas and $C_2$ in areas far away. If the age of the fossil is determined to be $T_1$ and $T_2$ at the places respectively, then
💡 Solution & Explanation
The calculated age is given by $T = \frac{1}{\lambda} \ln\left(\frac{C_{initial}}{C_{current}}\right)$. A higher assumed $C_{initial}$ (due to the explosion generating more $\text{C}^{14}$) makes the fraction larger, which increases the calculated age. Difference is $T_1 - T_2 = \frac{1}{\lambda} \ln(C_1) - \frac{1}{\lambda} \ln(C_2) = \frac{1}{\lambda} \ln\frac{C_1}{C_2}$. Therefore, correct answer is A.