Older MCQs might not have the typical A, B, C,
D
choices. They
have choices 1, 2, 3, and a combination of them is the answer. Below is the key that maps such
combinations to the answer.
A
1, 2 and 3 are correct
B
1 and 2 only are correct
C
2 and 3 only are correct
D
1 only is correct
Describe the detection of alpha particles (α-particles) using a cloud chamber or spark counter and the detection of beta particles (β-particles) (β-particles will be taken to refer to β-) and gamma radiation (γ-radiation) by using a Geiger-Müller tube and counter
State, for α-particles, β-particles and γ-radiation: (a) their relative ionising effects (b) their relative penetrating powers
Explain how the type of radiation emitted and the half-life of the isotope determine which isotope is used for applications including: (a) household fire (smoke) alarms (b) irradiating food to kill bacteria (c) sterilisation of equipment using gamma rays (d) measuring and controlling thicknesses of materials with the choice of radiations used linked to penetration and absorption (e) diagnosis and treatment of cancer using gamma rays
