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IB Physics HL · E.3 Radioactive decay

Exponential decay and the decay constant for IB Physics HL

Exponential decay and the decay constant is mapped to E.3 Radioactive decay in the IB Physics HL pathway. Use this public guide to see exactly where the concept fits, what to master, and which GioPhysics resource continues the study sequence.

E · Nuclear and quantum physicsSL + HL extensionGuide 3 of 3

Where this fits

E.3 Radioactive decay

Curriculum
IB Physics HL
Theme or group
Nuclear and quantum physics
Current framework
First assessment 2025

Decay, half-life, and activity are Chapter 46; the HL decay-law calculus is lesson 24.6.

Mastery checklist

Know what success looks like.

  1. 01

    State the physical model and the evidence or observation it explains.

  2. 02

    Track energy, momentum, charge, and nucleon number through the process where applicable.

  3. 03

    Interpret the relevant spectrum, decay, probability, or binding-energy representation.

Exam lens

Build, apply, check.

E.3 Radioactive decay is identified as SL + HL extension in this curriculum map. Build the concept first, then practise selecting a model, showing working, and checking the final result.

Teaching sequence

E.3 Radioactive decay

This syllabus point maps to 3 ordered concept guides.

  1. 01Radioactive decay and activity
  2. 02Half-life
  3. 03Exponential decay and the decay constantCurrent guide

Continue on GioPhysics

Choose the right next step.

The curriculum context stays public. Lesson and presentation access follows the existing GioPhysics membership rules.

LearnOpen the mapped lessonExponential decay and the decay constantTeachOpen the presentationClassroom sequence for this conceptPractiseOpen problem applicationsEasy through expert problem pathwaysPlanOpen the full curriculum mapIB Diploma Programme Physics