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3 Ionising radiations are emitted by unstable nuclei: (a) (i) Which particle has the same mass as but opposite charge to a $eta^-$ particle? Put a cross (✗) in the box next to your answer - Edexcel - GCSE Physics - Question 3 - 2013 - Paper 1
Question 3
3 Ionising radiations are emitted by unstable nuclei: (a) (i) Which particle has the same mass as but opposite charge to a $eta^-$ particle? Put a cross (... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:3 Ionising radiations are emitted by unstable nuclei: (a) (i) Which particle has the same mass as but opposite charge to a $eta^-$ particle? Put a cross (✗) in the box next to your answer - Edexcel - GCSE Physics - Question 3 - 2013 - Paper 1
Step 1
Which particle has the same mass as but opposite charge to a $eta^-$ particle?
Answer
The particle that has the same mass as but opposite charge to a eta^- particle is the positron (B). A positron is the antimatter counterpart of an electron, sharing the same mass but with a positive charge.
Step 2
Suggest why a beta particle will travel further in air than an alpha particle.
Answer
A beta particle will travel further in air than an alpha particle because beta particles are smaller and have significantly lower mass compared to alpha particles. Alpha particles, being heavier and positively charged, are more likely to interact with air molecules, losing energy rapidly and resulting in a shorter range. In contrast, beta particles can travel further due to their smaller size and lesser charge, which leads to fewer interactions with air molecules.
Step 3
Complete the sentence by putting a cross (✗) in the box next to your answer.
Answer
Following the radioactive decay of a nucleus, the nucleus might undergo some rearrangement, losing energy as gamma radiation (A). Gamma radiation is a form of electromagnetic radiation emitted by the nucleus during transitions that release energy.