Radioactivty

Question 1

What type of ioniser and penetrating power does an alpha particle have?

Answer 1

Strong ioniser as its big and heavy

Non penetrating

Question 2

What type of particle is a beta particle?

Answer 2

Very fast moving electron

Question 3

What type of ioniser and penetrating power does a beta particle have?

Answer 3

Weaker ionsing power as its lighter

Weak penetrating power

Question 4

Is alpha positive or negative charge?

Answer 4

Positive

Question 5

Is beta positive or negative?

Answer 5

Negative - it’s an electron

Question 6

What are 5 sources of background radiation?

Answer 6

Cosmic radiation 
Rocks in the ground - granite/uranium 
The air
Food - bananas have potassium
Building materials

Question 7

How do you control the chain reaction in a nuclear reactor?

Answer 7

Moderator - slow down neutrons (made of graphite/heavy water)

Control rods - reduce number of neutrons (boron)

Question 8

What are fuel rods made of?

Answer 8

Uranium

Question 9

What is an alpha particle?

Answer 9

Helium nucleus

Question 10

Why do alpha particles and beta particles have different penetrating powers? (5)

Answer 10

Beta stronger ionising power
Alpha larger so more likely to collide with atoms
Alpha has more charge
Alpha has less penetrating power
Alpha has more energy lost quickly due to ionisation