BIOLOGY

Half-life decay calculator

Estimate the amount remaining after a decay interval.

01 / INPUTS

Your numbers

02 / YOUR RESULT
25
Amount remaining in original units

Default inputs are examples. Change them to match your situation.

How to use this calculator

Estimate the amount remaining after a decay interval. Enter starting amount, elapsed time (same units), half-life (same units). The result updates when you change an input. To compare two sets of inputs, save scenario A, then enter the second set; the result panel shows the difference.

Formula and limits

Remaining amount = initial amount × 2^(−elapsed time/half-life). Assumes a single exponential decay process. Not a medication dosing tool.

Worked example

The following example uses the calculator’s starting values. It is an illustration of the method, not a recommended target.

InputExample value
Starting amount100
Elapsed time (same units)10
Half-life (same units)5

Amount remaining in original units: 25

Interpreting your result

These are simplified mathematical models with explicit assumptions. Real populations and biological systems may not follow a constant exponential rate. No clinical dosing or treatment use is intended.

Comparing alternatives

Save the first result as scenario A, then change one input. The comparison shows the numeric difference; it does not label either result as better. Choose inputs that describe realistic alternatives. Values shown on screen are rounded, so calculations from rounded intermediate results may differ slightly.

Implementation updated September 25, 2026 · How we check calculations