RADIOACTIVITY REVISION (GCSE)

This fully-resourced revision lesson has been written to cover the major details of the radioactivity topic that can be assessed in the GCSE Physics and Combined Science (HT) exams. The engaging PowerPoint and accompanying resources contain a wide range of activities which include exam-style questions with clearly explained answers, differentiated tasks and quiz competitions to allow students to assess their understanding and to ultimately recognise those areas which need further consideration.

The following points are covered in this revision lesson:

Describe the structure of atom and recall the typical size
Recall the relative masses and charges of the subatomic particles and use the number of protons and electrons to explain why atoms are neutral
Describe the structure of the nuclei of an isotope
Explain what is meant by background radiation and recall sources
Describe methods for measuring and detecting radioactivity
Describe the process of beta minus and beta plus decay
Write and balance nuclear decay equations
Explain the effects on the proton and nucleon number as a result of decay
Recall that the unit of radioactivity is Bq
Use the concept of half-life to carry out calculations
Describe the use of isotopes in PET scanners
Describe the differences between nuclear fission and fusion
Explain how the fission of U-235 produces two daughter nuclei, two or three neutrons and releases energy
Write equations to represent nuclear fission
Describe the advantages and disadvantages of nuclear energy
Explain why nuclear fusion cannot happen at low temperatures and pressures