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State two safety procedures to reduce risk when using this type of source - AQA - A-Level Physics - Question 1 - 2019 - Paper 3
Question 1
State two safety procedures to reduce risk when using this type of source. A sealed source contains radium-226 ( Ra). Ra decays by emitting α and β particles t... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:State two safety procedures to reduce risk when using this type of source - AQA - A-Level Physics - Question 1 - 2019 - Paper 3
Step 1
State two safety procedures to reduce risk when using this type of source.
Answer
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Maximize Distance: When handling the source, keep it as far away from yourself and others as possible to reduce exposure to radiation.
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Minimize Exposure Time: Limit the time spent near the source during experiments to reduce overall exposure to radiation.
Step 2
Determine the number of routes by which B can change into K.
Answer
To determine this, examine the graph in Figure 2. The number of routes corresponds to the paths from B to K on the neutron-proton diagram. Count the direct transitions plotted between these points to find the total number.
Step 3
Identify which of the nuclei A to M are common to all the possible ways that Ra decays into Pb.
Answer
Review the transitions depicted in Figure 2. The nuclei common to all decay routes starting from Ra and leading to Pb are typically the ones appearing consistently across all paths between A and M.
Step 4
State and explain procedures to eliminate systematic error in the measurements used to find A.
Answer
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Use Consistent Measurement Techniques: Always use the same distance and angle during measurements to avoid variations.
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Calibration of Instruments: Regularly calibrate radiation detectors before use to ensure accurate readings and adjust for any deviations.
Step 5
Deduce the minimum thickness of the aluminium absorber that should be used in the experiment.
Answer
Analyze Figure 4 to find the relationship between the energy of β particles and their range in aluminum. Through calculation or graphical interpretation, estimate the thickness that reduces the intensity of β radiation to an acceptable level.
Step 6