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Radioactive sources are used in hospitals for both diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions - Edexcel - GCSE Physics - Question 2 - 2017 - Paper 1
Question 2
Radioactive sources are used in hospitals for both diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. (a) Complete the sentence by putting a cross (X) in the box next t... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Radioactive sources are used in hospitals for both diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions - Edexcel - GCSE Physics - Question 2 - 2017 - Paper 1
Step 1
Step 2
Describe ways that medical staff can be protected from exposure to ionising radiation.
Answer
Medical staff can be protected from exposure to ionising radiation through several methods:
- Use of Lead Shields: Utilizing lead aprons and shields can absorb radiation, reducing exposure levels.
- Distance: Maintaining a safe distance from the radiation source minimizes exposure, as radiation intensity decreases with distance according to the inverse square law.
- Limiting Time of Exposure: Reducing the time spent near radiation sources decreases the total dose of radiation received by medical staff.
Step 3
Explain how cancer tumours can be treated using a radiation source placed inside the patient.
Answer
Cancer tumours can be effectively treated using a method called brachytherapy, where a radioactive source is placed directly next to or inside the tumour. The procedure involves:
- Insertion of Radioactive Source: Radiotherapy devices emitting alpha or beta particles are placed near or within the cancerous tissue.
- Radiation's Effects on Tumour Cells: The emitted radiation damages the DNA of cancer cells, which leads to their death or prevents further growth.
- Precision: This method allows for targeted treatment, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues while maximizing the dose received by the tumour.