ATOMS AND RADIOACTIVITY
2 marks · NormalDescribe two sources of natural background radiation that people are likely to experience.
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Examples: (1) Rocks and soil, especially granite, which may emit radon gas; (2) Cosmic rays from space.
Must show: Reference to environmental and cosmic sources
Also accept: Medical sources (if specifically natural: hospitals, if not accept environmental)
Common mistakes: Only giving one source; Giving nuclear power or weapons as natural sources
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Marking points
B1 · 1 mark · Identifies a valid natural source (e.g., rock/soil, radon, cosmic rays).
B2 · 1 mark · Identifies a second valid, distinct source.
Worked solution
Two natural sources are: 1. Radioactive materials in rocks or soil, such as granite releasing radon gas. 2. Cosmic rays from outer space entering Earth's atmosphere.