Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Radioactive decay

Radioactive decay — practice question

Polonium-211 ($^{211}_{84}\text{Po}$) undergoes alpha emission, forming a stable lead (Pb) isotope.
(a)[2]

Complete the decay equation. $^{211}_{84}\text{Po} \rightarrow \,\ldots\ldots\text{Pb} + \,\ldots\ldots\alpha$

(b)

Fig. 9.1 shows how the number of unstable nuclei $N$ in a polonium-211 sample varies with time $t$. At time $t = 0$, the sample consists only of polonium-211.

(b(i))[2]

Use Fig. 9.1 to find the decay constant $\lambda$ for polonium-211. Give the unit with your answer.

(b(ii))[1]

Use your answer in (b)(i) to calculate the activity of the polonium-211 sample at time $t = 0$.

(b(iii))[2]

On Fig. 9.1, sketch a line that shows how the number of lead nuclei in the sample varies with $t$.

(c)

An alpha particle is released in each decay with an energy of $6900\,\text{keV}$.

(c(i))[3]

Calculate, in J, the total energy transferred to alpha particles emitted between time $t = 0.30\,\text{s}$ and time $t = 0.90\,\text{s}$.

(c(ii))[1]

Suggest why the total energy released by the decay process during the interval from time $t = 0.30\,\text{s}$ to time $t = 0.90\,\text{s}$ is greater than your answer in (c)(i).

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 11-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Values for the lead nucleus: $207$, $82$

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