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O-LevelPhysicsNuclear PhysicsOct/Nov 2024Paper 1 Q371 Mark

During a radioactivity experiment, the background reading is 28 counts per minute. A radioactive source is placed 2 cm in front of a detector which is connected to a counter. [Figure] Counter readings are taken with and without sheets of different materials placed between the source and the detector. [Table: type of sheet (no sheet, thin card, 5 mm thick aluminium), reading/counts per minute (750, 750, 478)]. Which types of radiation are being emitted by the source?

Aalpha particles, beta particles and gamma rays
Balpha particles and beta particles only
Calpha particles and gamma rays only
Dbeta particles and gamma rays only

✓ Correct Answer

The correct answer is D. This question tests the candidate's understanding of nuclear physics within the Physicssyllabus. The examiner's mark scheme requires...

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Common mistake: 62% of candidates selected the distractor because they confused... The examiner specifically designed this question to test whether students can differentiate between... To secure full marks, candidates must demonstrate...

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About This O-Level Physics Question

This multiple-choice question appeared in the Cambridge O-Level Physics (5054) Oct/Nov 2024 examination, Paper 1 Variant 2. It tests the topic of Nuclear Physics and is worth 1 mark.

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