decay constants

A decay constant is a number that describes the rate at which a substance, like a radioactive element, breaks down over time. In simple terms, it helps us understand how quickly a material loses its original properties or quantity. A higher decay constant means the substance decays faster, while a lower one indicates a slower decay. This concept is crucial in fields like nuclear physics and medicine, as it informs us about the safety, effectiveness, and lifespan of radioactive materials used in treatments and research.