A student models the random nature of radioactive decay using 100 dice - AQA - GCSE Physics - Question 9 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 9
A student models the random nature of radioactive decay using 100 dice.
He rolls the dice and removes any that land with the number 6 facing upwards.
He rolls the ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:A student models the random nature of radioactive decay using 100 dice - AQA - GCSE Physics - Question 9 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
Give two reasons why this is a good model for the random nature of radioactive decay.
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Answer
The process is random; the outcome of each roll is independent, similar to radioactive decay events.
The model demonstrates how particles can randomly disappear, mirroring how radioactive isotopes decay over time.
Step 2
Use Figure 11 to determine the half-life for these dice using this model.
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Answer
To determine the half-life, locate the point on Figure 11 where the number of remaining dice is approximately 50. From the table, this occurs after about 3.6 to 3.7 rolls.
Thus, the half-life is approximately 3.6 to 3.7 rolls.
Step 3
Determine the atomic number of thorium (Th) 234.
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The atomic number of thorium (Th) 234 is 90.
Step 4
When protactinium decays, a new element, X, is formed.
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The new element, X, formed when protactinium decays is uranium.
Step 5
Determine the type of radiation emitted as protactinium decays into a new element.
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The type of radiation emitted is beta radiation because a neutron decays into a proton and an electron, increasing the proton number.
Step 6
Explain why the teacher wears polythene gloves.
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The teacher wears polythene gloves to prevent contamination and the transfer of radioactive material to their hands, reducing the risk of harmful exposure or injury over time.
