Physics 0625 · IGCSE · Radioactivity

Radioactivity — practice question

The radioactive isotope bismuth-210 ($^{210}_{83}\text{Bi}$) undergoes $\beta$-particle emission and produces an isotope of polonium (Po).
(a)[3]

Complete the nuclide equation to show this decay. $^{210}_{83}\text{Bi} \rightarrow \; \ldots\; \text{Po} + \; \ldots\; \beta$

(b(i))[2]

Explain why, when no artificial source is present, the detector still gives readings. Name one source of this effect.

(b(ii))[1]

Explain why the readings obtained are not all identical.

(b(iii))[3]

Predict the one-minute reading at the end of this time.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 9-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Nucleon number is conserved

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