6.4.1 Radioactive Substances (Structured Questions)

Question 1:
Diagram 1 shows three radioactive radiations, P, Q and R.


(a) Name radioactive radiations P and R. [2 marks]

(b) State the charges of radioactive radiation P and Q.[2 marks]

(c) Name the substance that can stop the penetration of radioactive radiation R. [1 mark]

(d) Name the radioactive radiation which is used to kill cancer cells. [1 mark]


Answer:
(a)
P: Alpha radiation
R: Gamma radiation

(b)
P: Positively charged
Q: Negatively charged

(c) Thick block of lead or concrete.

(d) Gamma radiation

Question 2:
Diagram 2 shows the use of a radioactive substance in food preservation.


(a) State the function of gamma radiation in this process. [1 mark]

(b) State two uses of gamma radiation other than food preservation.[2 marks]

(c) Name one material which can stop gamma radiation. [1 mark]

(d) State two dangerous effects of gamma radiation to human beings. [2 marks]


Answer:
(a) To kill microorganisms in the potatoes without changing their taste and appearance.

(b)
– To kill cancerous cells
– To control the thickness of paper, plastic or metal
– To kill or sterilize pests
(any two)

(c) Lead which is a few centimetres thick

(d)
– Kills body cells
– Causes cancer
– Causes mutation
(any two)