Pearson Edexcel International GCSE (9–1) · PHYSICS · Unit
Radioactivity and Particles
123 practice questions
Topics covered
Practice questions
31–40 of 49 · Easy
Question 31
3 marks · Easy
Answer and see the solution →This question is about the products of nuclear fission.
(a)[2 marks]In the fission of uranium-235, two types of particles are produced in addition to two lighter nuclei. Name both types.
(b)[1 mark]Are the two lighter nuclei produced in fission usually stable or radioactive?
Question 32
2 marks · Easy
Answer and see the solution →Explain briefly why a chain reaction can occur in a sample of uranium-235.
Question 33
3 marks · Easy
Answer and see the solution →The diagram shows a simple nuclear reactor setup:
Simple nuclear reactor model (a)[2 marks]Name one part used to slow down neutrons and one part used to absorb neutrons in a real reactor.
(b)[1 mark]State the purpose of shielding.
Question 34
1 mark · Easy
Answer and see the solution →Which nuclear process is the main source of energy in stars like the Sun?
Question 35
1 mark · Easy
Answer and see the solution →State the main process that provides energy in the core of stars such as the Sun.
Question 36
3 marks · Easy
Answer and see the solution →Nuclear fusion involves combining two light atomic nuclei to form a heavier nucleus.
(a)[2 marks]Name the two isotopes of hydrogen most commonly used in nuclear fusion experiments on Earth.
(b)[1 mark]State one particle (not a nucleus) that is released as a product in these fusion reactions.
Question 37
3 marks · Easy
Answer and see the solution →The diagram shows the reaction between a deuterium nucleus and a tritium nucleus.
(a)[2 marks]Explain why a very high temperature is needed for fusion to occur between deuterium and tritium nuclei.
(b)[1 mark]State one reason why fusion reactions are difficult to achieve on Earth, besides temperature.
Question 38
1 mark · Easy
Answer and check →Which of the following statements correctly describes nuclear fusion?
- A.Two light nuclei join to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy.
- B.A heavy nucleus splits into two lighter nuclei, releasing energy.
- C.An unstable nucleus emits an alpha particle to become more stable.
- D.A neutron is absorbed by a nucleus, causing it to become unstable.
Question 39
1 mark · Easy
Answer and see the solution →State the process that powers the Sun and other stars.
Question 40
1 mark · Easy
Answer and check →Which statement best describes why nuclear fusion requires very high temperatures and pressures?
- A.The nuclei must move slowly enough to combine.
- B.The repulsive forces between nuclei must be overcome.
- C.There must be enough gravity for fusion to occur.
- D.Radioactive waste must be produced by fusion.