Physics 5054 · O Level · Radioactivity

Radioactivity — practice question

Isotope X is radioactive and undergoes alpha-particle emission to form a stable isotope.
(a)[2]

State the change to a nucleus of X when it emits an alpha-particle.

(b(i))[1]

A radiation detector is operating in a laboratory with no radioactive samples present. It is switched on and shows an average count rate of 22 counts per minute. State why the radiation detector shows a count rate.

(b(ii))[2]

A sample of isotope X is placed $2\,\text{cm}$ from the detector and the displayed reading is 8000 counts per minute. The sample is then moved to a distance of $10\,\text{cm}$ from the detector. The reading returns to an average value of 22 counts per minute. Explain why the reading returns to the original value.

(c(i))[1]

On Fig. 6.1, draw an arrow through point J to show the direction of the force acting on the alpha-particle at J.

(c(ii))[1]

Work out the direction of the magnetic field and place a tick (✓) in the box that shows this direction.

(c(iii))[2]

Explain whether this force does work on the alpha-particle while it moves along the circular path.

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