IB DP Physics Radioactive Decay & Half-Life Experiment Pre-Lab Notes 2026

Physics Radioactive Decay & Half-Life Experiment: Pre-Lab Notes and Practical Guide

This pre-lab resource provides structured preparation for investigations into radioactive decay and half-life measurements. It gives students a clear introduction to relevant physics concepts, measurement techniques, practical procedures, and safety considerations before they begin laboratory work.

Keeping it Simple
This pre-lab pack offers an accessible overview of radioactive decay and the concept of half-life without dense theory. It focuses on the essential ideas and practical steps students will encounter in the lab, helping them build confidence with data collection, analysis, and interpretation before hands-on work begins.

What’s Included in This Pre-Lab Pack
1.** Student Pre-Lab Notes – A clearly structured preparation guide with:**

• Simple explanations of radioactive decay, activity, and half-life
• Diagrams showing typical experimental setups with radiation sources and detectors
• Step-by-step outline of the experiment and data collection procedures
• Guidance on recording count rates over time and organising data
• Worked examples showing how to determine half-life from decay curves
• Safety notes on working with low-level radioactive sources and detectors
• Exam tips addressing common misunderstandings about exponential decay and uncertainties

1. Teacher Notes – Support for pre-lab discussion:
   • Concise background theory linking decay processes to half-life calculations
   • Suggestions for concept checks and pre-lab questioning
   • Common student challenges (graph interpretation, statistical variation)
   • Differentiation strategies for varied confidence with maths and measurement
   • Assessment opportunities tied to data analysis and interpretation

2. Technician Preparation Guide – Setup information:
   • Materials and equipment list including radiation sources, Geiger counters or counters, timers and tables
   • Health and safety reminders for detector handling and lab layout
   • Preparation guidance for safe arrangement and labelling of stations
   • Step-by-step apparatus setup instructions
   • Troubleshooting tips for inconsistent counts or equipment sensitivity

Audio Summary for Enhanced Learning
• A podcast-style audio summary is included for students who prefer listening
• Explains radioactive decay and half-life in accessible language
• Walks through typical setup and measurement techniques
• Highlights key safety considerations and practical tips
• Useful as pre-lab preparation or revision support

Ideal For:
• Students preparing for nuclear physics practicals
• Audio learners who benefit from spoken explanations
• Teachers planning structured pre-lab sessions
• Technicians needing clear setup and safety guidance

This resource supports practical physics preparation by emphasising clarity, safety, and the development of essential measurement and analysis skills.