Gamma rays

2 marks · Normal

Explain why food stays fresher for longer after it has been exposed to gamma radiation.

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Show answer

Gamma radiation kills microorganisms or bacteria that cause food to spoil, so the food remains fresher for longer.

Also accept: gamma rays destroy bacteria

Show mark scheme and worked solution

Marking points

B1 · 1 mark · States that gamma rays kill microorganisms/bacteria in food.

B2 · 1 mark · Links this to food keeping fresher for longer/being preserved.

Worked solution

Gamma radiation is used to kill bacteria and microorganisms that cause food to decay, so the food spoils more slowly and stays fresh for longer.