In a Laboratory Accident, a Work Area Is Contaminated with |

question 41

Multiple Choice

$\begin{array} { | l | c | c | c | c | c | c | } \hline \text { Time (days) } & 0 & 2 & 6 & 11 & 19 & 30 \\\hline \text { Counts per } & & & & & & \\\text { Minute } & 1000 & 899 & 726 & 556 & 356 & 200 \\\hline\end{array}$ In a laboratory accident, a work area is contaminated with radioactive material. Health physicists monitor the area during a 30-day period and obtain the data shown in the table. The accident occurred at time t = 0 days. They determine that it will not be safe for workers to enter the area until the radioactivity level has dropped to 16 counts per minute. Of the choices listed, which one is the earliest time after the accident that workers could safely return?

• A)77 days
• B)90 days
• C)102 days
• D)65 days
• E)48 days

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Definitions:

Virginian

Pertaining to Virginia, a state in the southeastern United States, or its inhabitants.

Patrick Henry

A Founding Father of the United States known for his declaration "Give me liberty, or give me death!" in opposition to British rule.

Common Sense

Practical judgment concerning everyday matters, or a basic ability to perceive, understand, and judge in a manner that is shared by (common to) nearly all people.

Thomas Paine

An influential political writer and revolutionary of the 18th century, known for works like "Common Sense" and "The Rights of Man."