Physics 0625 · IGCSE · Radioactivity

Radioactivity — practice question

(a)[3]

Radon-220 is a radioactive isotope. The nuclide notation for radon-220 is $^{220}_{86}\text{Rn}$. Describe the make-up of a neutral atom of radon-220.

(b)[3]

A nucleus of radon-220 decays to an isotope of polonium (Po) by giving off an alpha particle. Complete the nuclide equation for the decay of radon-220. $^{220}_{86}\text{Rn} \rightarrow$ [BLANK] $\alpha$ + [BLANK] $\text{Po}$

(c)[2]

A radiation detector is positioned close to a sample of radon-220 and records 720 counts/s. The half-life of radon-220 is 55 s. Calculate the reading after 220 s. Ignore background radiation.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 8-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: 86 protons (in nucleus)

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