Calculate the half-value thickness (in mm) of lead if it reduces the intensity of a beam of x-rays whose wavelength is 10 pm by a factor of two. (Assume the linear absorption coefficient of lead is 43 cm−¹ for x-rays of wavelength 10 × 10−¹² m.) A) 0.24 B) 0.20 C) 0.12 D) 0.16 E) 0.18

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The half-value thickness (HVT) is calculated using the formula HVT = ln(2) / μ, where μ is the linear absorption coefficient. Given μ = 43 cm−1, converting to m−1 gives 4300 m−1. Thus, HVT = 0.693 / 4300 = 0.000161 m or 0.16 mm.

Calculate the Half-Value Thickness (In Mm) of Lead If It