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6 Radioactivity

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Question 132

Two metal trays, X and Y, are involved in separate incidents at a research facility.

Tray X is placed near a sealed gamma source. The source remains sealed throughout and is then returned to a shielded store.

Tray Y is involved in a different incident. It is moved away from the incident area and its surface is then washed.

A detector is placed the same distance from each tray. The count rate is recorded in each condition.

ConditionCount rate in counts per minute
Background, with no tray or source present20
Tray X while near the sealed gamma source760
Tray X after the source is returned to the store21
Tray Y in the incident area690
Tray Y after being moved, before washing675
Tray Y after washing84

Using the readings, explain which tray was irradiated and which tray was contaminated. Suggest which tray, if either, needs further cleaning before it is handled.

[5]
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6 Radioactivity Questions

  1. GCSE
  2. /Physics
  3. /6 Radioactivity

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