What is defined as the length of time required for half of the radioactive atoms in a sample to decay?

The term that refers to the length of time required for half of the radioactive atoms in a sample to decay is known as half-life. This concept is crucial in various fields, including pharmacology and nuclear medicine, as it helps to predict how long a substance will remain potent or how quickly it will be eliminated from the body. Understanding half-life is essential when determining dosing schedules and managing the effects of drugs or radioactive substances over time. It essentially quantifies the rate of decay, allowing for better predictions regarding the behavior of substances that exhibit radioactive properties.