Figure 1 shows a sealed radioactive source used in schools and colleges - AQA - A-Level Physics - Question 1 - 2019 - Paper 3

By analyzing Figure 2, identify the pathways that lead from point B to K. Count the distinct routes shown in the graph. If there are multiple branches leading to K from B, sum these to give the total number of routes.

The common nuclei can be identified by examining all possible branches from ^{226}Ra to ^{206}Pb and determining which nuclei appear in every possible decay pathway. This is typically the intermediate nuclei that are found in all routes.

1. Ensure proper calibration of the radiation detector before measurements are taken to maintain accuracy.

2. Conduct measurements in a controlled environment to minimize external radiation exposure and ensure consistent results. Consider taking multiple readings and averaging them to further reduce uncertainty.

Using Figure 4, determine the energy at which ext{β} particles reach their maximum range. Calculate the corresponding minimum thickness of aluminium required to fully attenuate these particles, using the given data on energy versus range.

From Figure 6, extract the gradient of the line plotted as rac{d}{ oot{A_b}} versus d. Use the linear relationship to derive ext{d}, indicating how the distance relates inversely to the square root of the count rate.

After finding ext{d} and incorporating the values from Figure 6, calculate ext{ε} by rearranging the inverse square law formula to isolate ext{ε}, thus enabling you to find the effective distance travelled by the gamma radiation.