Introduction to Radioactivity and Half-Life Experiment Kit

SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS / PROCESSES

• Investigate concepts of half-life and radioactivity
  
• Calculate amount of carbon-14 found in an sample embedded in amber and 28,000 year old charcoal
  
• Calculate the age of pollen by carbon-14 dating

The goal of this highly interesting kit is to simplify a complex task: The investigation of half-life.

The general concepts of radioactivity and half-life are explored using the material in this Lab-Aid. Using simulated plastic radioactive atoms (simulats), each student conducts a series of activities that provide graphable data.

Students then perform a series of calculations measuring Carbon 14, a radioactive carbon which has been used to date plant and animals remains. Students can easily grasp the general concept of radioactivity and half-life determination through this kit.

Completed in a single lab period, this activity can also be used to enhance student math skills. All material in this kit, for 30 students, is reusable.

Contents List

• 1 Teachers Guide
• 30 Student Worksheets and Guides w/data chart
• 15 Simulated radioactive atoms (simulats), plastic, sets
• 15 Shakers