Photo AI

Radiation is released when radioactive elements decay - Leaving Cert Physics - Question 10 - 2017

Question icon

Question 10

Radiation-is-released-when-radioactive-elements-decay-Leaving Cert Physics-Question 10-2017.png

Radiation is released when radioactive elements decay. (i) Name three types of radiation. (ii) Which type of radiation has no charge? (iii) Which type of radiatio... show full transcript

Worked Solution & Example Answer:Radiation is released when radioactive elements decay - Leaving Cert Physics - Question 10 - 2017

Step 1

Name three types of radiation.

96%

114 rated

Answer

The three types of radiation are:

  1. Alpha radiation (α)
  2. Beta radiation (β)
  3. Gamma radiation (γ)

Step 2

Which type of radiation has no charge?

99%

104 rated

Answer

Gamma radiation (γ) has no charge.

Step 3

Which type of radiation is the least penetrating?

96%

101 rated

Answer

Alpha radiation (α) is the least penetrating.

Step 4

Which type of radiation is not deflected by magnetic fields?

98%

120 rated

Answer

Gamma radiation (γ) is not deflected by magnetic fields.

Step 5

State one danger associated with nuclear radiation.

97%

117 rated

Answer

One danger associated with nuclear radiation is the risk of cancer, which can arise from exposure to radioactive materials.

Step 6

State one precaution that should be taken when handling radioactive substances.

97%

121 rated

Answer

One precaution is to use protective clothing, such as gloves and lab coats, to minimize exposure.

Step 7

What is nuclear fission?

96%

114 rated

Answer

Nuclear fission is the process of splitting the nucleus of an atom into two or more smaller nuclei, accompanied by the release of energy and neutrons.

Step 8

Name a fuel used in nuclear reactors.

99%

104 rated

Answer

A commonly used fuel in nuclear reactors is uranium, specifically enriched uranium.

Step 9

State the function of (a) the control rods and (b) the shielding in a reactor.

96%

101 rated

Answer

(a) The control rods regulate the rate of the nuclear reaction by absorbing excess neutrons. (b) The shielding protects personnel and the environment from harmful radiation.

Step 10

What is the purpose of the heat exchanger?

98%

120 rated

Answer

The purpose of the heat exchanger is to transfer heat from the reactor to water, converting it into steam which can then be used to generate electricity.

Join the Leaving Cert students using SimpleStudy...

97% of Students

Report Improved Results

98% of Students

Recommend to friends

100,000+

Students Supported

1 Million+

Questions answered

;