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5.2.2a Alpha, beta and gamma emission

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Question 17
a.

A particular radioactive source is known to emit either β\betaβ-particles or γ\gammaγ-rays.

Describe an experiment involving a metal sheet absorber (e.g., aluminium) to determine which type of radiation is being emitted. In your description, detail:

  • A diagram of the experimental arrangement.
  • The method to be followed.
  • A statement of how the results identify the radiation.
[4]
b.

The table below shows the count-rate detected from a radioactive source over a period of 60 hours.

Time / hours01020304560
Count-rate / counts/s\text{counts/s}counts/s60042030021012675

From this table, estimate the half-life of the radioactive source.

[2]
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5.2.2a Alpha, beta and gamma emission Questions

  1. IGCSE
  2. /Physics
  3. /5.2.2a Alpha, beta and gamma emission

134 exam-style questions on CIE IGCSE Physics 5.2.2a Alpha, beta and gamma emission. Each one has a worked solution and a mark scheme showing where the marks go.

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