1(a) Here are four uses of radioactivity - Edexcel - GCSE Physics - Question 1 - 2013 - Paper 1
Question 1
1(a) Here are four uses of radioactivity.
Draw a line from each one of them to the type of radiation it uses.
Each type of radiation may be chosen once, more tha... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:1(a) Here are four uses of radioactivity - Edexcel - GCSE Physics - Question 1 - 2013 - Paper 1
Step 1
sterilisation of medical equipment
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Answer
Uses alpha radiation because it is effective at killing bacteria and pathogens.
Step 2
household fire (smoke) alarm
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Answer
Uses alpha radiation, as it is suitable for ionizing air molecules to detect smoke.
Step 3
gauging thickness of cardboard
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Uses beta radiation because it can penetrate materials and is useful for measuring thickness.
Step 4
irradiating food
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Answer
Uses gamma radiation, which is effective for killing microorganisms and extending shelf life.
Step 5
Which graph best shows how the activity of a radioactive isotope changes with time?
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Answer
The correct answer is B, as it accurately represents the decay of activity over time.
Step 6
Complete the sentence by putting a cross (❌) in the box next to your answer.
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Answer
The unit of activity of a radioactive isotope is the B becquerel.