Half-life Calculator

Solve half-life problems: find the elapsed time, the remaining quantity, or the half-life itself.

Runs 100% in your browser — nothing is uploaded.

Find
Runs 100% in your browser — nothing is uploaded.

Result

Elapsed time
20 years

Formula

N(t) = N₀ · (½)^(t / t½)

About this calculator

The half-life calculator determines the time required for a quantity to reduce to half its initial value, or computes the remaining amount after a given time, based on exponential decay. The calculator uses the exponential decay model.

How to use

  1. 1

    Select what you want to find: Elapsed time, Remaining amount, or Half-life.

  2. 2

    Enter the known values (Initial amount, and the other two quantities as shown).

  3. 3

    Optionally set the Time unit, then read the result.

Frequently asked questions

What is half-life?

Half-life is the time required for a quantity to reduce to half its initial value. It is commonly used in nuclear physics and chemistry to describe radioactive decay.

How is half-life related to decay constant?

The decay constant (λ) is related to half-life by the equation λ = ln(2)/T½. It represents the probability of decay per unit time.

Can half-life be used for non-radioactive processes?

Yes, half-life applies to any process that follows exponential decay, such as drug elimination from the body or the discharge of a capacitor.

Please note: Results are estimates for general information only and are not professional or medical/financial advice.