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First-Order Half-Life Calculator

First-order half-life calculator

Calculate first-order kinetic half-life from rate constant.

InputsChemistry1 fieldLive

Result

t1/2 = 30.1368339374

Uses first-order relation t1/2 = ln(2)/k.

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Advanced options
Flow
  • Enter first-order rate constant k in 1/time.
  • Compute half-life directly using ln(2)/k.
  • Interpret output in the same time unit basis as k.
Example

Worked example: k = 0.023 s^-1

  1. 1 Apply t1/2 = ln(2)/k.
  2. 2 Compute 0.693147/0.023.
  3. 3 Result is about 30.14 seconds.

Half-life is approximately 30.14 time units.

How
  1. Enter first-order rate constant k in 1/time.
  2. Compute half-life directly using ln(2)/k.
  3. Interpret output in the same time unit basis as k.
Avoid
  • Applying first-order half-life formula to non-first-order reactions.
  • Using k with inconsistent time units.
Checks

Best fit

First-Order Half-Life Calculator is built for calculate first-order reaction half-life from rate constant. If First-Order Half-Life Calculator does not match the input scope, compare the answer with a second method.

Input check

Match the entered values to this rule before copying the answer: t1/2 = ln(2) / k.

Sanity check

For First-Order Half-Life Calculator, use the worked example as a quick benchmark: Half-life is approximately 30.14 time units. If the first-order half-life calculator answer is far away, check whether an input, unit, or mode changed.

Before copying

Review this common issue first: applying first-order half-life formula to non-first-order reactions.

Ref only. Verify values. Follow lab safety.

FAQ
Does half-life depend on concentration for first order?

No. First-order half-life is concentration-independent.

Can I use min^-1 rate constants?

Yes. Output half-life will be in minutes if k is per minute.

What if k is zero?

k must be greater than zero for finite decay half-life.

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