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Cyclotrons are used to make radioactive isotopes for medical purposes - Edexcel - GCSE Physics - Question 4 - 2015 - Paper 1
Question 4
Cyclotrons are used to make radioactive isotopes for medical purposes. Charged particles move in a circular path. (i) Complete the sentence by putting a cross (X) ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Cyclotrons are used to make radioactive isotopes for medical purposes - Edexcel - GCSE Physics - Question 4 - 2015 - Paper 1
Step 1
i) Complete the sentence by putting a cross (X) in the box next to your answer.
Answer
The field used to keep charged particles moving in a circular path in a cyclotron is B magnetic. The magnetic field exerts a force perpendicular to the direction of motion of the charged particles, causing them to move in a circular trajectory.
Step 2
ii) State what causes the charged particles to increase their speed as they go around the cyclotron.
Answer
The charged particles increase their speed due to the work done on them by the electric field present in the cyclotron. As the particles traverse the circular path, they are accelerated by the alternating electric field, which imparts energy to them.
Step 3
iii) Describe how scientists use the charged particles from a cyclotron to produce radioactive isotopes.
Answer
Scientists utilize the high-energy charged particles generated by the cyclotron to bombard target materials. When these high-energy particles collide with the target nuclei, they induce nuclear reactions, which can transform stable isotopes into radioactive isotopes. This process is essential for generating isotopes used in medical imaging and cancer treatment, such as Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scanning.