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Question 4 of 70 in The Electromagnetic Spectrum

Gamma rays

2 marks · Easy

Explain why gamma rays are suitable for treating cancer.

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Gamma rays are highly penetrating and can kill cancer cells when targeted directly at them.

Also accept: Highly penetrating; can be aimed to kill cancer cells; Can damage and destroy cancer cells

Common mistakes: They are visible light; They only heat up the cells

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Marking points

M1 · 1 mark · Gamma rays are highly penetrating (can reach deep inside the body)

A1 · 1 mark · Gamma rays can kill cancer cells when targeted

Worked solution

Gamma rays are highly penetrating, so they can reach cancer cells deep inside the body. When the rays are carefully targeted, they can kill the cancer cells.

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