IGCSE Physics Specification

Edexcel 4PH1

Section 7: (b) Radioactivity

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#7.2

describe the structure of an atom in terms of protons, neutrons and electrons and use symbols such as \(^{14}_6C\) to describe particular nuclei

#7.3

know the terms atomic (proton) number, mass (nucleon) number and isotope

#7.4

know that alpha (α) particles, beta (β) particles, and gamma (γ) rays are ionising radiations emitted from unstable nuclei in a random process

#7.5

describe the nature of alpha (α) particles, beta (β) particles, and gamma (γ) rays, and recall that they may be distinguished in terms of penetrating power and ability to ionise

#7.6

practical: investigate the penetration powers of different types of radiation using either radioactive sources or simulations

#7.7

describe the effects on the atomic and mass numbers of a nucleus of the emission of each of the four main types of radiation (alpha, beta, gamma and neutron radiation)

#7.8

understand how to balance nuclear equations in terms of mass and charge

#7.9

know that photographic film or a Geiger−Müller detector can detect ionising radiations

#7.10

explain the sources of background (ionising) radiation from Earth and space

#7.11

know that the activity of a radioactive source decreases over a period of time and is measured in becquerels

#7.12

know the definition of the term half-life and understand that it is different for different radioactive isotopes

#7.13

use the concept of the half-life to carry out simple calculations on activity, including graphical methods

#7.14

describe uses of radioactivity in industry and medicine

#7.15

describe the difference between contamination and irradiation

#7.16

describe the dangers of ionising radiations, including:

- that radiation can cause mutations in living organisms
- that radiation can damage cells and tissue
- the problems arising from the disposal of radioactive waste and how the associated risks can be reduced.