They measure the count-rate, using a Geiger-Muller tube, when the source is placed behind different material. Their results are shown in the table below:
Which type of radiation is being given off by the source?
Tip: Make sure to memorise the different types of radiation, as these are common exam questions. However, neutron radiation is less common and it is not required to know its properties for the exam
Tips
- You do not need to know the different uses of the different types of radiation but you must be able to use your knowledge of the properties of the different types in order to determine which source is the most appropriate for a particular use.
- If you are presented with an unfamiliar situation in your exam don’t panic! Just apply your understanding of alpha, beta and gamma radiation - the answer will be found among those three.
Example: Explain why is alpha radiation used in smoke detectors, and not beta or gamma radiation.
- Consider the different properties of alpha, beta and gamma:
(i) Alpha is the most weakly penetrating and strongest ioniser
(ii) Beta and gamma have stronger penetrating power and weaker ionising power- If beta or gamma radiation were used in this situation then they would pass straight through the smoke and the alarm would not go off
- Therefore, since alpha is absorbed by smoke, and beta and gamma are not, this makes it most suitable for use in a smoke detector
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