Cosmic rays from outer space are a natural source of background radiation. Give one other natural source of background radiation.
Nuclear power stations use the energy released by nuclear fission. Give the name of one isotope commonly used as a primary fuel in fission reactors.
Describe the process of a controlled nuclear fission chain reaction inside a reactor.
Stars, like our Sun, release energy through nuclear fusion. Explain how the process of nuclear fusion leads to the release of energy.
Some experimental reactors produce radioactive waste with a much shorter half-life than traditional nuclear fission waste. Explain the safety or environmental advantage of radioactive waste having a shorter half-life.
Practise AQA GCSE Physics Hazards and uses of radioactive emissions and of background radiation (physics only) with exam-style questions for Foundation and Higher tier. 16 questions covering Background radiation, Different half-lives of radioactive isotopes, and Uses of nuclear radiation, matched to the AQA GCSE Physics (8463) specification and written in Paper 1 and Paper 2 style. Every question includes a full worked solution and mark scheme, so you can see where marks are awarded rather than just whether you got the answer right.