Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Atoms, nuclei and radiation

Atoms, nuclei and radiation — practice question

The nuclide $^{3}_{1}\mathrm{H}$ is a hydrogen isotope known as tritium.
(a(i))[2]

Determine the numbers of protons, neutrons and electrons in a neutral tritium atom.

(a(ii))[2]

Draw a labelled diagram to show a simple model of how the protons, neutrons and electrons are arranged in a tritium atom.

(b(i))[2]

Tritium is radioactive and decays by $\beta^{-}$ emission to produce an isotope of helium (He). No gamma radiation is released in this decay. Complete the equation to show the radioactive decay of tritium: $^{3}_{1}\mathrm{H} \rightarrow \; ^{\phantom{0}}_{\phantom{0}}\mathrm{He} + ^{\phantom{0}}_{\phantom{0}}\beta + ^{0}_{0}X$.

(b(ii))[1]

State the name given to particle $X$.

(c)[2]

Determine the quark makeup of a tritium nucleus.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 9-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: protons and electrons are each 1

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