10 (a) Radioactive tracers can be used when scanning a person's kidneys - Edexcel - GCSE Physics - Question 10 - 2022 - Paper 1
Question 10
10 (a) Radioactive tracers can be used when scanning a person's kidneys.
A radioactive isotope is injected into a person's blood stream.
The isotope emits radi... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:10 (a) Radioactive tracers can be used when scanning a person's kidneys - Edexcel - GCSE Physics - Question 10 - 2022 - Paper 1
Step 1
What type of radiation travels from the kidney to the scanner?
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Answer
The type of radiation that travels from the kidney to the scanner is D gamma radiation. Gamma rays are highly penetrating and are able to pass through the body, making them suitable for detection by external scanners.
Step 2
State why an isotope with a half-life of about 6 minutes is not suitable.
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Answer
An isotope with a half-life of about 6 minutes is not suitable because it decays too quickly. This rapid decay means that the isotope would not provide sufficient time for the technician to take accurate readings during the scan.
Step 3
State why an isotope with a half-life of about 6 days is not suitable.
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An isotope with a half-life of about 6 days is not suitable because it remains radioactive for too long. This extended duration increases the technician's exposure to radiation over time, posing health risks.
Step 4
State two ways of reducing the radiation risks to the technician.
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Increasing the distance between the technician and the source of radiation during the procedure can significantly reduce exposure.
Using shielding materials, such as lead or other dense substances, can protect the technician from direct radiation.
