A teacher works out which kinds of radiation are produced by a radioactive source by placing different materials in the path of the emissions. Fig. 11.1 shows the apparatus. The diagram includes a radioactive source, a sample of material set 2 cm from the source, a detector, and a counter. The teacher positions a material between the radioactive source and the detector. The counter gives the count rate for the emission that reaches the detector. The teacher notes the count rate. He then repeats the test for a range of different materials. Table 11.1 shows the outcomes.
(a)[2]
State whether the source emits $\alpha$ (alpha)-particles. Use the information in Table 11.1 to give a reason for your answer.
(b)[2]
State whether the source emits $\gamma$ (gamma)-rays. Use the information in Table 11.1 to give a reason for your answer.
Worked solution & mark scheme
This 4-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: “Alpha particles are not emitted” …