Question

In April 1986, a flawed reactor design played a part in the Chernobyl nuclear meltdown. Approximately 14252 becqurels (Bas), units of radioactivity, were initially released into the environment. Only areas with less than 800 Bas are considered safe for human habitation. The function f) = 14252(0.5) describes the amount, (), in becqurels, of a radioactive element remaining in the area of years after 1986. Find f(220) to determine the amount of becqurels in 2206. Determine if the area is safe for human habitation in the year 2206.
A. Yes, because by 2206, the radioactive element remaining in the area is less than 800 Bqs.
B. No, because by 2206, the radioactive element remaining in the area is greater than 800 Bqs.
C. Yes, because by 2206, the radioactive element remaining in the area is greater than 800 Bqs.
D. No, because by 2206, the radioactive element remaining in the area is less than 800 Bqs.

Answer 1

Answer:

A. Yes, because by 2206, the radioactive element remaining in the area is less than 800 Bqs.

Step-by-step explanation:

Function for the amount of radioactivity:

The function for the amount of radioactivity, in t years after 1996, is given by:

$f(t) = 14252(0.5)^{\frac{t}{32}}$

Find f(220) to determine the amount of becqurels in 2206.

$f(220) = 14252(0.5)^{\frac{220}{32}} = 121.42$

121.42 < 600, so the area will be safe, and the correct answer is given by option A.