Nuclear Chemistry (SQA National 5 Chemistry): Exam Questions

Identify the radioisotope, S, that is formed when radium-228 decays by emission of two beta particles and an alpha particle.

An atom of ²²⁷Th decays by a series of alpha emissions to form an atom of ²¹¹Pb.

How many alpha particles are released in this decay process?

Radon-222 is a radioisotope present in the Earth’s atmosphere. Plants can absorb radon-222 through their roots.

Compared with radon-222 in the atmosphere, the half-life of the radon-222 in the plant cells will be:

A radioisotope is used to monitor blood flow around the body. In order to prevent damage to the body the radiation emitted must be able to escape through the skin.

Which line in the table describes the type of radiation emitted and half-life that would make a radioisotope suitable for this use?

The diagram shows the path of two different types of radiation as they pass through an electric field.

Which line in the table correctly identifies the types of radiation which follow paths X and Y?