3 ms·
Two substances might emit the same kind of particles, but their rate of decay will be different. Measuring the emissions of a container over a period of severa
by kijin 11y ago
Two substances might emit the same kind of particles, but their rate of decay will be different.
Measuring the emissions of a container over a period of several years will probably yield enough data points to solve for all of the unknowns.
- hga 11y agoAlso the energies, specifically of the more penetrating gamma rays (very energetic photons). And the more dangerous stuff has shorter half-lives, so it wouldn't take all that long to get the full picture. WRT to nuclear weapons, we can determine what the fissionables were, where they were mined, and some details of design all from sniffing the air downwind.