An isotope of lithium is used in nuclear research and targeted cell therapy.
The isotope of lithium is bombarded with neutrons to form tritium (an isotope of hydrogen) and alpha-particles.
Describe one difference between nuclear fission and nuclear fusion.
A nucleus of lithium (Li\text{Li}Li) contains 3 protons and 3 neutrons. Complete the nuclide equation for this reaction by filling in the proton and nucleon numbers in the spaces provided:
……Li+01n→……H+……α {}^{\dots}_{\dots}\text{Li} + {}^{1}_{0}\text{n} \rightarrow {}^{\dots}_{\dots}\text{H} + {}^{\dots}_{\dots}\alpha ……Li+01n→……H+……αThe alpha-particles produced are used to destroy targeted unhealthy cells. Suggest and explain one reason why alpha-particles are more suitable than gamma radiation for the localized destruction of targeted cells.
In other medical treatments, gamma radiation is used. Describe one safety precaution a nurse or radiologist takes during such treatments.
284 exam-style questions on CIE IGCSE Physics 5.1 The nuclear model of the atom, covering 5.1.1a Structure of the atom and ions, 5.1.1b Alpha-particle scattering, 5.1.2a Composition of the nucleus and isotopes, 5.1.2b Proton number, nucleon number and nuclide notation, and 5.1.2c Nuclear fission and nuclear fusion. Each one has a worked solution and a mark scheme showing where the marks go.