What does the term "half-life" refer to in radiation?

The term "half-life" specifically refers to the time it takes for half of a given quantity of a radioactive substance to decay. This is a fundamental concept in radiological science and nuclear physics, as it provides essential information about the stability and longevity of radioactive isotopes. During each half-life period, the activity of the material decreases to 50% of its previous value.

Understanding half-lives is critical for applications in radiation protection, medical treatments, and the management of radioactive waste, as it helps predict how long a substance will remain hazardous and assists in establishing safety protocols for handling radioactive materials. The concept of half-life allows scientists and health professionals to calculate the expected radiation exposure over time and make informed decisions regarding safety measures and interventions.