A patient is injected with 10.0 mg of radioactive iron-59 (t_1/2 = 45 days). Knowing that radioactive decay follows first-order kinetics, and assuming all of the Fe-59 is taken up by the spleen, how much remains in that organ 65 days later? A. 2.9 mg B. 3.7 mg C. 5.4 mg D. 1.3 mg
Expert Answer
Answer
First we have to find the number of half lifes
No. of half lifes = 65/45 =1.44
(1/2) no. of half lifes = equil decimal amount remainining (1/2)1.44 = 0.3686
Fe-59 remains after 65 days = 0.3686* 10 mg = 3.686 mg