Using radiostopes Flashcards
To learn the uses of radiostopes
Why is alpha radiation used in smoke detectors?
Low penetration; It is easily absorbed by smoke particles
What radiostope is used in smoke detectors?
Americium - 241
How does the smoke detector detect smoke?
Smoke enters the gap between the source and the detector, so that it absorbs the alpha radiation. No current flows in the detector , so the processing circuit switches on and sounds the alarm
Where is beta radiation used due to its penetrating power?
By paper manufacturers to measure the thickness of paper and make sure there is uniform thickness
How does beta radiation measure paper thickness?
It is directed towards paper. If it is too thick, the detector measures a low amount of radiation and the thickness is adjusted
What are two uses of gamma radiation due to penetrating power?
Medical diagnosis of some diseases, fault detection in manufactured goods
How is gamma radiation used in cancer treatments?
Used to destroy tumors. This is radiation therapy
How does gamma help with food irradiation?
Microbes can be killed by intense gamma rays. The food becomes sterilised
How does gamma help with sterilising equipment?
Kills microbes in medical instruments e.g syringes.
What is radioactive tracing (detectability use)?
Using radiation to detect tiny quantities of substances
Example of where radioactive tracing can be used.
By engineers tracing underground water flow.
What is a use of radiation related to radiactive decay?
Radiocarbon dating
What is radiocarbon dating?
A way of finding out how old dead organisms are
