Physics 0625 · IGCSE · Radioactivity

Radioactivity — practice question

The isotope thallium-208 ($^{208}_{81}\text{Tl}$) is radioactive and undergoes $\beta$-decay.
(a(i))[3]

Complete the equation for the decay shown. $^{208}_{81}\text{Tl} \rightarrow \; \dots\dots\text{Pb} + \dots\dots\beta$

(a(ii))[1]

Explain why $\gamma$-emission has no effect on the numbers in the equation in (a)(i).

(a(iii))[1]

Suggest one cause of the instability of a thallium-208 nucleus.

(b)[3]

The narrow beam enters a region where the magnetic field points into the page. On Fig. 8.1: • draw a line labelled $\beta$ to show the route followed by the $\beta$-particles in the magnetic field • draw a line labelled $\gamma$ to show the route followed by the $\gamma$-radiation in the magnetic field.

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