Physics (Separate Science) · GCSE · OCR · OCR GCSE Physics A (Gateway Science) — Higher (J249) · Specification point · P6.2 · Radioactivity
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P6.2 Uses and hazards
Summary We now address the hazards and applications of radioactive decay. The processes of fission and fusion as a source of energy are also considered. Underlying knowledge and understanding Learners may have prior understanding of the term radioactivity from the previous sub topic and may be familiar with some uses, but will not have covered this content prior to this topic.
Common misconceptions Learners tend to think that radioactivity will always cause physical mutations when humans or animals come into contact with it. They tend to only think of the negative impacts of radiation and not the positive uses.
| Learning outcomes | To include | Maths | Working scientifically | Practical suggestions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
P6.2a recall the differences between contamination and irradiation effects and compare the hazards associated with these two | WS1.1a, WS1.1b, WS1.2a, WS1.2d, WS1.3b, WS1.3f | Use of spark chamber to demonstrate a different type of activity counter. |
P6.2b ☑ explain why the hazards associated with radioactive material differ according to the half-life involved | WS1.1a, WS1.1c, WS1.1d, WS1.1e, WS1.1f, WS1.1h, WS1.1i | Illustrate an everyday use of radioactive sources in smoke detectors and discuss why they might be suitable. |
P6.2c ☑ describe the different uses of nuclear radiations for exploration of internal organs, and for control or destruction of unwanted tissue | WS1.1a, WS1.1c, WS1.1d, WS1.1e, WS1.1f, WS1.1h, WS1.1i | Research the medical uses of radioactive tracers and radiotherapy. |
P6.2d ☑ recall that some nuclei are unstable and may split, and relate such effects to radiation which might emerge, to transfer of energy to other particles and to the possibility of chain reactions | knowledge of the term nuclear fission for fission to occur the unstable nucleus must usually first absorb a neutron |
P6.2e ☑ describe the process of nuclear fusion | knowledge that mass may be converted into the energy of radiation |