M&M Half Life activity
The aim of this activity is to visually simulate how atoms radioactively
decay.
Half Life – (write the definition here)
The original amount of a radioactive element is known as the Parent
atom.
When the parent atom decays, it becomes another substance this is
known as the daughter atom.
You will need a bag of skittles or M&Ms (the more you have, the
better – try and have at least 50)
Materials:
- 50 Pieces of M&M’s or skittles
- 2 x plastic cups
Method:
1. Count out 50 pieces of candy and place into a cup. Record this
number into the table. (These are the PARENT ATOMS).
2. Cover the cup with your hand and shake for 10 seconds.
3. Pour the candy atoms onto the table. Remove the candies with the
“M” side up and into the separate plastic cup. Record this number into
the table. (These are the daughter atoms).
4. Place the candies that are on the table back into the empty cup.
5. Repeat steps 2-4 until candies have “decayed”.
6. Repeat steps 1-5 for a second trail.
You may then eat your candies when both trials are completed.
Half life
Time Zero (100%)
1st half life (50%)
2nd half life (25%)
3rd half life (12.5%)
4th half life (6.25%)
5th half life (3.125%)
6th half life (1.56%)
Trial 1
Trial 2