ATOMS AND RADIOACTIVITY
2 marks · NormalGive one use of radioactivity in medicine and explain how its properties make it suitable for this use.
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Example: Gamma rays are used in the treatment of cancer because they can penetrate the body and destroy cancerous cells without the need for surgery.
Must show: States medical use (e.g., tumour treatment, tracers), Explains why the chosen radiation is suitable (e.g., penetrates body, destroys cells, short half-life, etc.)
Common mistakes: Giving industrial example; Not linking properties to use
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Marking points
B1 · 1 mark · Identifies a valid medical use of radioactivity.
B2 · 1 mark · Explains how specific property enables/suits the use.
Worked solution
Example: Radioactive tracers containing gamma emitters are injected into the body to diagnose function of organs. Gamma rays are detected outside the body as they penetrate tissues well and have a short half-life, reducing risk.