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Cambridge IGCSE Physics

5.2.2The three types of nuclear emission

The three types of nuclear emission in Cambridge IGCSE Physics: what the syllabus expects you to know, the learning objectives and how to practise.
Subtopic14 practice questions1 lesson

Learning objectives

What the syllabus expects you to be able to do.

  1. 5.2.2.1Describe nuclear emission as spontaneous and random in direction.
  2. 5.2.2.2Identify alpha, beta and gamma emissions by their nature, relative ionising effect and relative penetrating ability.
  3. 5.2.2.3Supplement: describe how alpha particles, beta particles and gamma rays are deflected in electric and magnetic fields.
  4. 5.2.2.4Supplement: explain their relative ionising effects using kinetic energy and charge.

Lessons

  • Alpha, beta and gamma radiation

    30 min

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Sample question

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The three types of nuclear emission: sample question

1 mark

Which type of radiation is stopped by a sheet of paper?

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