The exponential function model of radioactive decay and the concept of a half-life are used in nuclear experiments1–4 that appear in introductory and intermediate laboratories. In our interactions with students, we have found that students at all levels have significant confusion about both the term exponential and what is meant by a half-life as well as fundamental misconceptions regarding curve fitting.
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Driver part number—ME 8750; PASCO Cart—ME 9450; PASCO Track—ME 9453.
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© 2008 American Association of Physics Teachers.
2008
American Association of Physics Teachers
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