Radioactive elements are unstable and decay with the release of radiation - Leaving Cert Physics - Question 10 - 2009
Question 10
Radioactive elements are unstable and decay with the release of radiation.
How would you detect radiation? (6)
Name the three types of radiation.
(i) Which radiat... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Radioactive elements are unstable and decay with the release of radiation - Leaving Cert Physics - Question 10 - 2009
Step 1
How would you detect radiation?
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Answer
To detect radiation, several methods can be utilized:
Geiger-Müller (GM) Tube: This device clicks or produces sound upon detecting radiation, allowing for quick measurement.
Ionization Chamber: Measures the ionization of air as radiation passes through.
Cloud Chamber: Visualizes radiation trails through vapor condensation.
Zinc Sulfide (ZnS) Screens: Emit light when struck by alpha particles.
Scintillation Counter: Converts radiation into light, which is then counted.
Photographic Film: Records exposure to radiation over time.
Step 2
Name the three types of radiation.
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Answer
The three types of radiation are:
Alpha radiation (α)
Beta radiation (β)
Gamma radiation (γ)
Step 3
Which radiation is negatively charged?
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Answer
Beta radiation (β) is negatively charged.
Step 4
Which radiation has the shortest range?
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Answer
Alpha radiation (α) has the shortest range due to its larger mass and charge.
Step 5
Which radiation is not affected by electric fields?
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Gamma radiation (γ) is not affected by electric fields because it is neutral.
Step 6
What is nuclear fission?
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Answer
Nuclear fission is the process where a heavy nucleus splits into two smaller nuclei, releasing a significant amount of energy. It typically occurs when the nucleus absorbs a neutron.
Step 7
What is the role of neutrons in nuclear fission?
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Answer
Neutrons are crucial in nuclear fission as they initiate the reaction. When a neutron collides with a fissile nucleus, it can cause the nucleus to become unstable and split, producing additional neutrons that can continue the fission process.
Step 8
Name a fuel used in a nuclear reactor.
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Answer
A common fuel used in a nuclear reactor is uranium, specifically isotopes like uranium-235 (U-235) or thorium-232 (Th-232).
Step 9
In a nuclear reactor, how can the fission be controlled or stopped?
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Fission can be controlled or stopped using control rods made of neutron-absorbing materials (like boron or cadmium) that can be inserted or removed from the reactor core to slow down or halt the reaction.
Step 10
How is the energy produced in a nuclear reactor used to generate electricity?
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The energy produced in a nuclear reactor generates heat, which is used to produce steam. This steam drives turbines connected to generators, converting thermal energy into electrical energy.
Step 11
Give one advantage and one disadvantage of a nuclear reactor as a source of energy.
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Advantage: Nuclear reactors produce large amounts of energy with low greenhouse gas emissions.
Disadvantage: The disposal of radioactive waste is a significant environmental and safety concern.
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