Physics 0625 · IGCSE · Radioactivity

Radioactivity — practice question

A uranium-235 radioactive nucleus decays into a thorium nucleus and gives off an $\alpha$-particle.
(a)[2]

Insert the missing nuclide in $^{235}_{92}\text{U} \rightarrow \; [\,]\text{Th} + ^4_2\alpha$.

(b(i))[1]

State what nuclear fission means.

(b(ii))[2]

Suggest why thick concrete walls are placed around a nuclear reactor.

(b(iii))[2]

State one environmental advantage and one environmental disadvantage of using a fission reactor to produce electrical energy in a power station.

(c)[3]

Calculate how many atoms in this sample decay during the next $52\,\text{hours}$.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 10-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: $^{231}\text{Th}$

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