A radioactive substance decays at a rate of 12% per year. If the initial mass is 200 grams, what will be the remaining mass after four years?

Tue, 05 May 2026 07:54:11 +0000

**Why Half a Century Later: The Quiet but Steady Decay of a Radioactive Substance Still Matters**
What happens when you start with 200 grams of a substance that loses 12% of its mass each year? That slow erosion—measurable, repeatable, and grounded in science—fuels discussions across fields like environmental health, nuclear safety, and long-term waste management. As interest in radioactive materials grows in research and policy circles, understanding decay rates reveals practical insights into how these substances behave over time. For curious Americans exploring health trends, environmental impact, or nuclear technology, this dynamic process offers both clarity and relevance. **Why A Radioactive Substance Decays at a Rate of 12% Per Year—And Why It’s More Than Just a Number**
What drives this consistent 12% annual loss? At its core, radioactive decay is a natural physical process. Over time, unstable atomic nuclei emit radiation to achieve greater stability, gradually transforming into less dense elements. The rate—about 12% per year—reflects the substance’s decay constant and depends on its half-life structure rather than a fixed clock. In today’s context, knowing this decay pattern helps industry experts, public health officials, and environment educators communicate risks and timelines accurately. The steady nature of decay also makes precise predictions easier, supporting better planning for storage, disposal, and monitoring of radioactive materials. **How A Radioactive Substance Decays at a Rate of 12% Per Year—Science Simplified for Clarity**
Imagine starting with 200 grams of a radioactive material. Each year, 12% of its current mass transforms and leaves. After one year, 16 grams (12% of 200 grams