A scientist is studying a sample containing a large number of atoms of a radioactive isotope. The scientist wants to predict which specific nucleus in the sample will undergo radioactive decay next. Which of the following statements represents the correct physical understanding of this process?
It is impossible to predict which specific nucleus will decay next because radioactive decay is a random and spontaneous process.
The nuclei on the outer surface of the sample will decay first because they are exposed to the environment.
The oldest nuclei in the sample will decay first because they have had more time to become unstable.
We can predict which nucleus decays next by measuring the temperature and pressure distribution within the sample.
484 exam-style questions on CIE IGCSE Physics 5.2 Radioactivity, covering 5.2.1 Background radiation and measuring count rate, 5.2.2a Alpha, beta and gamma emission, 5.2.2b Deflection and ionising effects of nuclear radiation, 5.2.3a Radioactive decay, 5.2.3b Effects of decay on the nucleus and decay equations, 5.2.4a Half-life, 5.2.4b Choosing isotopes for applications, and 5.2.5 Effects of ionising radiation and safety precautions. Each one has a worked solution and a mark scheme showing where the marks go.