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Topic 11 Particles Physics

preguntas de physics As and A level

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13 views57 pages

Topic 11 Particles Physics

preguntas de physics As and A level

Uploaded by

Melba Cuervo

We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.

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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

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11.

Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

TOPIC 11: PARTICLES PHYSICS

11 Particle physics
11.1 Atoms, nuclei and radiation
Candidates should be able to:
1 infer from the results of the α-particle scattering experiment the existence and small size of the nucleus
2 describe a simple model for the nuclear atom to include protons, neutrons and orbital electrons
3 distinguish between nucleon number and proton number
4 understand that isotopes are forms of the same element with different numbers of neutrons in their
nuclei
5 understand and use the notation AZX for the representation of nuclides
6 understand that nucleon number and charge are conserved in nuclear processes
7 describe the composition, mass and charge of α-, β- and γ-radiations (both β– (electrons) and β+
(positrons) are included)
8 understand that an antiparticle has the same mass but opposite charge to the corresponding particle,
and that a positron is the antiparticle of an electron
9 state that (electron) antineutrinos are produced during β– decay and (electron) neutrinos are produced
during β+ decay
10 understand that α-particles have discrete energies but that β-particles have a continuous range of
energies because (anti)neutrinos are emitted in β-decay

11 represent α- and β-decay by a radioactive decay equation of the form 238

92
U " 234
90
Th + 24 α
12 use the unified atomic mass unit (u) as a unit of mass

11.2 Fundamental particles

Candidates should be able to:
1 understand that a quark is a fundamental particle and that there are six flavours (types) of quark: up,
down, strange, charm, top and bottom
2 recall and use the charge of each flavour of quark and understand that its respective antiquark has the
opposite charge (no knowledge of any other properties of quarks is required)
3 recall that protons and neutrons are not fundamental particles and describe protons and neutrons in
terms of their quark composition
4 understand that a hadron may be either a baryon (consisting of three quarks) or a meson (consisting of
one quark and one antiquark)
5 describe the changes to quark composition that take place during β– and β+ decay
6 recall that electrons and neutrinos are fundamental particles called leptons

629
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

9702/22/M/J/09/Q8
1 The spontaneous and r andom decay of a r adioactive substance in volves the emission of
either -radiation or -radiation and/or -radiation.

(a) Explain what is meant by spontaneous decay.

..........................................................................................................................................

.................................................................................................................................... [2]

(b) State the type of emission, one in each case, that

(i) is not affected by electric and magnetic fields,

............................................................................................................................ [1]

(ii) produces the greatest density of ionisation in a medium,

............................................................................................................................ [1]

(iii) does not directly result in a change in the proton number of the nucleus,

............................................................................................................................ [1]

(iv) has a range of energies, rather than discrete values.

............................................................................................................................ [1]

630
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

9702/21/O/N/09/Q7
2 An α-particle A approaches and passes by a stationary gold nucleus N. The path is illustrated
in Fig. 7.1.

α-particle B

α-particle A

Fig. 7.1

(a) On Fig. 7.1, mark the angle of deviation D of this α-particle as a result of passing the
nucleus N. [1]

(b) A second α-particle B has the same initial direction and energy as α-particle A.
On Fig. 7.1, complete the path of α-particle B as it approaches and passes by the
nucleus N. [2]

..........................................................................................................................................

.................................................................................................................................... [2]

(d) The nucleus N could be one of several different isotopes of gold.

Suggest, with an explanation, whether different isotopes of gold would give rise to
different deviations of a particular α-particle.

..........................................................................................................................................

.................................................................................................................................... [2]

631
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

9702/22/O/N/09/Q7
184 185
3 Tungsten-184 ( 74 W) and tungsten-185 ( 74 W) are two isotopes of tungsten.

Tungsten-184 is stable but tungsten-185 undergoes -decay to form rhenium (Re).

(a) Explain what is meant by isotopes.

..........................................................................................................................................

.................................................................................................................................... [2]

(b) The -decay of nuclei of tungsten-185 is spontaneous and random.

State what is meant by

(i) spontaneous decay,

..................................................................................................................................

............................................................................................................................ [1]

(ii) random decay.

..................................................................................................................................

............................................................................................................................ [1]

[2]

632
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

4 One of the isotopes of uranium is uranium-238 ( 238

92
U). 9702/21/M/J/10/Q7

(a) State what is meant by isotopes.

..........................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................... [2]

(b) For a nucleus of uranium-238, state

(i) the number of protons,

number = ................................................. [1]

(ii) the number of neutrons.

number = ................................................. [1]

(c) A uranium-238 nucleus has a radius of 8.9 × 10–15 m.

Calculate, for a uranium-238 nucleus,

(i) its mass,

mass = ............................................ kg [2]

(ii) its mean density.

density = ...................................... kg m–3 [2]

(d) The density of a lump of uranium is 1.9 × 104 kg m–3.

Using your answer to (c)(ii), suggest what can be inferred about the structure of the
atom.

..........................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................... [2]

633
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

9702/22/M/J/10/Q7
5 (a) The radioactive decay of some nuclei gives rise to the emission of α-particles.
State

(i) what is meant by an α-particle,

.............................................................................................................................. [1]

(ii) two properties of α-particles.

1. ...............................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

2. ...............................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................
[2]

(b) One possible nuclear reaction involves the bombardment of a stationary nitrogen-14
nucleus by an α-particle to form oxygen-17 and another particle.

(i) Complete the nuclear equation for this reaction.

14 ...... 17
7
N + α 8
O + ................. [2]
......

(ii) The total mass-energy of the nitrogen-14 nucleus and the α-particle is less than
that of the particles resulting from the reaction. This mass-energy difference
is 1.1 MeV.

1. Suggest how it is possible for mass-energy to be conserved in this reaction.

.............................................................................................................................

......................................................................................................................... [1]

2. Calculate the speed of an α-particle having kinetic energy of 1.1 MeV.

speed = ....................................... m s–1 [4]

634
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

9702/21/O/N/10/Q7
6 (a) Uranium (U) has at least fourteen isotopes.
Explain what is meant by isotopes.

..........................................................................................................................................

.................................................................................................................................... [2]

(b) One possible nuclear reaction involving uranium is

235U + 10n 141Ba + 92Kr + x 10n + energy.

92 56 Z

(i) State three quantities that are conserved in a nuclear reaction.

1. ...............................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

2. ...............................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

3. ...............................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................
[3]

(ii) For this reaction, determine the value of

1. Z,

Z = ................................................ [1]

2. x.

x = ................................................ [1]

635
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

9702/22/O/N/10/Q7
7 The results of the a-particle scattering experiment provided evidence for the existence and

small size of the nucleus.

(a) State the result that provided evidence for

(i) the small size of the nucleus, compared with the atom,

..................................................................................................................................

.............................................................................................................................. [2]

(ii) the nucleus being charged and containing the majority of the mass of the atom.

..................................................................................................................................

.............................................................................................................................. [2]

(b) The a-particles in this experiment originated from the decay of a radioactive nuclide.

Suggest two reasons why b-particles from a radioactive source would be inappropriate

for this type of scattering experiment.

1. ......................................................................................................................................

..........................................................................................................................................

2. ......................................................................................................................................

..........................................................................................................................................
[2]

Do not allow β-particles have negative charge or β-particles have high speed

636
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

9702/21/O/N/11/Q7
8 (a) Two isotopes of the element uranium are 235U
92 and 238U.
92

Explain the term isotope.

..........................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................... [2]

(b) (i) In a nuclear reaction, proton number and neutron number are conserved. Other
than proton number and neutron number, state a quantity that is conserved in a
nuclear reaction.

............................................................................................................................. [1]

(ii) When a nucleus of uranium-235 absorbs a neutron, the following reaction may take
place.

235U + ab n 141 Ba + y + 3 ab n
92 x 36 Kr

State the values of a, b, x and y.

a = .................

b = .................

x = .................

y = .................
[3]

(c) When the nucleus of 23892U absorbs a neutron, the nucleus decays, emitting an α-particle.
State the proton number and nucleon number of the nucleus that is formed as a result
of the emission of the α-particle.

proton number = ......................................................

nucleon number = ......................................................

[2]

9702/22/O/N/11/Q7
9 (a) State the experimental observations that show radioactive decay is

(i) spontaneous,

.............................................................................................................................. [1]

(ii) random.

.............................................................................................................................. [1]

637
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

(b) On Fig. 7.1, complete the charge and mass of α-particles, β-particles and γ-radiation.
Give example speeds of α-particles and γ-radiation emitted by a laboratory source.

α-particle β-particle γ-radiation

charge 0
mass 4u
speed up to 0.99c
Fig. 7.1 [3]
(c) Explain the process by which α-particles lose energy when they pass through air.

..........................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................... [2]

9702/21/M/J/12/Q7
10 (a) The spontaneous decay of polonium is shown by the nuclear equation

210
84 Po ➞ 206
82 Pb + X .

(i) State the composition of the nucleus of X.

..................................................................................................................................

.............................................................................................................................. [1]

(ii) The nuclei X are emitted as radiation. State two properties of this radiation.

1. ...............................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

2. ...............................................................................................................................

.............................................................................................................................. [2]

(b) The mass of the polonium (Po) nucleus is greater than the combined mass of the nuclei
of lead (Pb) and X. Use a conservation law to explain qualitatively how this decay is
possible.

..........................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................... [3]

638
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

9702/22/M/J/12/Q7
11 (a) A nuclear reaction occurs when a uranium-235 nucleus absorbs a neutron. The reaction
may be represented by the equation:
235 W 93 141
92 U + Xn 37 Rb + Z Cs + YW
Xn

State the number represented by the letter

W ............................................................. Y ..............................................................

X .............................................................. Z ...............................................................[3]

(b) The sum of the masses on the left-hand side of the equation in (a) is not the same as
the sum of the masses on the right-hand side.

Explain why mass seems not to be conserved.

..........................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................... [2]

9702/23/M/J/12/Q7
12 A radioactive source emits α-radiation and γ-radiation.

Explain how it may be shown that the source does not emit β-radiation using

(a) the absorption properties of the radiation,

..........................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................... [2]

(b) the effects of a magnetic field on the radiation.

..........................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................... [2]

639
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

13 (a) Describe the structure of an atom of the nuclide 235U.

92
9702/21/O/N/12/Q6

..........................................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................... [2]

(b) The deflection of α-particles by a thin metal foil is investigated with the arrangement
shown in Fig. 6.1. All the apparatus is enclosed in a vacuum.

vacuum detector of _-particles

W D
_source
path of deflected
X _-particles
Y

Fig. 6.1

The detector of α-particles, D, is moved around the path labelled WXY.

(i) Explain why the apparatus is enclosed in a vacuum.

..................................................................................................................................

............................................................................................................................. [1]

(ii) State and explain the readings detected by D when it is moved along WXY.

..................................................................................................................................

............................................................................................................................. [3]

(c) A beam of α-particles produces a current of 1.5 pA. Calculate the number of α-particles
per second passing a point in the beam.

number = ........................................... s–1 [3]

640
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

9702/22/O/N/12/Q7
14 A nuclear reaction between two helium nuclei produces a second isotope of helium, two
protons and 13.8 MeV of energy. The reaction is represented by the following equation.

3 3
......... .........
2He + 2He
.........
He + 2
.........
p + 13.8 MeV

(a) Complete the nuclear equation. [2]

(b) By reference to this reaction, explain the meaning of the term isotope.

..........................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................... [2]

..........................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................... [2]

(d) Radiation is produced in this nuclear reaction.

State

(i) a possible type of radiation that may be produced,

.............................................................................................................................. [1]

(ii) why the energy of this radiation is less than the 13.8 MeV given in the equation.

.............................................................................................................................. [1]

(e) Calculate the minimum number of these reactions needed per second to produce power
of 60 W.

number = ........................................... s–1 [2]

641
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

9702/23/O/N/12/Q6
15 (a) β-radiation is emitted during the spontaneous radioactive decay of an unstable nucleus.

(i) State the nature of a β-particle.

............................................................................................................................ [1]

(ii) State two properties of β-radiation.

1. ...............................................................................................................................

2. ...............................................................................................................................
[2]

(iii) Explain the meaning of spontaneous radioactive decay.

..................................................................................................................................

............................................................................................................................ [1]

(b) The following equation represents the decay of a nucleus of hydrogen-3 by the emission
of a β-particle.

Complete the equation.

...... ......
3H He + β [2]
1 ...... ......

(c) The β-particle is emitted with an energy of 5.7 × 103 eV.

Calculate the speed of the β-particle.

speed = ...................................... m s–1 [3]

(d) A different isotope of hydrogen is hydrogen-2 (deuterium). Describe the similarities and
differences between the atoms of hydrogen-2 and hydrogen-3.

..........................................................................................................................................

.................................................................................................................................... [2]

642
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

9702/21/M/J/13/Q7
16 (a) Describe the two main results of the α-particle scattering experiment.

result 1: ............................................................................................................................

..........................................................................................................................................

result 2: ............................................................................................................................

..........................................................................................................................................
[3]

(b) Relate each of the results in (a) with the conclusions that were made about the nature of
atoms.

result 1: ............................................................................................................................

..........................................................................................................................................

result 2: ............................................................................................................................

..........................................................................................................................................
[3]

9702/22/M/J/13/Q7
210
17 A polonium nucleus 84Po is radioactive and decays with the emission of an α-particle. The

nuclear reaction for this decay is given by

210 W Y
84Po XQ + Z α.

(a) (i) State the values of W ...............

X ...............

Y ...............

Z ...............
[2]

(ii) Explain why mass seems not to be conserved in the reaction.

..................................................................................................................................

.............................................................................................................................. [2]

(b) The reaction is spontaneous. Explain the meaning of spontaneous.

..........................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................... [1]

643
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

9702/22/O/N/13/Q7
18 (a) An electric field is set up between two parallel metal plates in a vacuum. The deflection

of α-particles as they pass between the plates is shown in Fig. 7.1.

metal plate

path of
_-particles

electric field metal plate

Fig. 7.1

The electric field strength between the plates is reduced. The α-particles are replaced

by β-particles. The deflection of β-particles is shown in Fig. 7.2.

metal plate

path of
`-particles

electric field metal plate

Fig. 7.2

(i) State one similarity of the electric fields shown in Fig. 7.1 and Fig. 7.2.

..................................................................................................................................

.............................................................................................................................. [1]

(ii) The electric field strength in Fig. 7.2 is less than that in Fig. 7.1. State two methods

of reducing this electric field strength.

1. ...............................................................................................................................

2. ...............................................................................................................................
[2]

644
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

(iii) By reference to the properties of α-particles and β-particles, suggest three reasons
for the differences in the deflections shown in Fig. 7.1 and Fig. 7.2.

1. ...............................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

2. ...............................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................

3. ...............................................................................................................................

..................................................................................................................................
[3]

(b) A source of α-particles is uranium-238. The nuclear reaction for the emission of
α-particles is represented by
238 W Y
92U XQ + Z α.

State the values of W ...............

X ...............

Y ...............

Z ...............
[2]

(c) A source of β-particles is phosphorus-32. The nuclear reaction for the emission of
β-particles is represented by
32 A C
15P BR + D β.

State the values of A ...............

B ...............

C ...............

D ...............
[1]

645
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

9702/21/M/J/14/Q7
19 (a) State what is meant by

α-particle: ..................................................................................................................................

β-particle: ..................................................................................................................................

..............[2]
γ-radiation: ..................................................................................................................

(b) Describe the changes to the proton number and the nucleon number of a nucleus when
emission occurs of

(i) an α-particle,
...........................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................... [1]

(ii) a β-particle,
...........................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................... [1]

(iii) γ-radiation.
...........................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................... [1]

9702/22/O/N/14/Q7
210
20 In the decay of a nucleus of 84 Po, an α-particle is emitted with energy 5.3 MeV.

The emission is represented by the nuclear equation

210 A
84 Po BX + α + energy

(a) (i) On Fig. 7.1, complete the number and name of the particle, or particles, represented by
A and B in the nuclear equation.

number name of particle or particles

A
B

Fig. 7.1
[1]
210
(ii) State the form of energy given to the α-particle in the decay of 84 Po.

.......................................................................................................................................[1]

646
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

210
(b) A sample of polonium 84 Po emits 7.1 × 1018 α-particles in one day.

Calculate the mean power output from the energy of the α-particles.

power = ...................................................... W [2]

9702/22/M/J/15/Q7
21 A uranium-235 nucleus absorbs a neutron and then splits into two nuclei. A possible nuclear
reaction is given by
235 a 93 c
92U + bn 37Rb + dX + 2 abn + energy.

(a) State the constituent particles of the uranium-235 nucleus.

.............................................................................................................................................. [1]

(b) Complete Fig. 7.1 for this reaction.

value

[3]
Fig. 7.1

(c) Suggest a possible form of energy released in this reaction.

.............................................................................................................................................. [1]

(d) Explain, using the law of mass-energy conservation, how energy is released in this reaction.

...................................................................................................................................................

.............................................................................................................................................. [2]

647
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

9702/23/M/J/15/Q7
22 The equation represents the spontaneous radioactive decay of a nucleus of bismuth-212.

212 208
83 Bi X+ 81 Tl + 6.2 MeV

(a) (i) Explain the meaning of spontaneous radioactive decay.

...........................................................................................................................................

.......................................................................................................................................[1]

(ii) State the constituent particles of X.

.......................................................................................................................................[1]

(b) (i) Use the conservation of mass-energy to explain the release of 6.2 MeV of energy in this
reaction.

...........................................................................................................................................

.......................................................................................................................................[2]

(ii) Calculate the energy, in joules, released in this reaction.

energy = ....................................................... J [1]

648
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

9702/22/F/M/16/Q6
23 A neutron decays by emitting a β− particle.
(a) Complete the equation below for this decay.

......... ......... .........

1
0n .........
........... + .........
β− + .........
ν
[2]

(b) State the name of the particle represented by the symbol ν.

.............................................................................................................................................. [1]

(d) State

(i) the quark structure of the neutron,

...................................................................................................................................... [1]

(ii) the change to the quark structure when the neutron decays.

...........................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................... [1]

649
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

9702/21/M/J/16/Q7
24 (a) Give one example of

a hadron: ...................................................................................................................................

a lepton: ....................................................................................................................................
[1]

(b) Describe, in terms of the simple quark model,

(i) a proton,

.......................................................................................................................................[1]

(ii) a neutron.

.......................................................................................................................................[1]

(c) Beta particles may be emitted during the decay of an unstable nucleus of an atom. The
emission of a beta particle is due to the decay of a neutron.

(i) Complete the following word equation for the particles produced in this reaction.

neutron .................................... + .................................... + .................................... [1]

(ii) State the change in quark composition of the particles during this reaction.

.......................................................................................................................................[1]

9702/22/M/J/16/Q8
25 (a) State the name of the class (group) to which each of the following belongs:

electron ............................................................... neutrino ...............................................................

neutron ................................................................ proton ..................................................................

[2]
(b) A proton may decay into a neutron together with two other particles.

(i) Complete the following to give an equation that represents this proton decay.

1p ........ n + ................. + .................

1 ........ ........ ........ [2]

(ii) Write an equation for this decay in terms of quark composition.

[1]
(iii) State the name of the force responsible for this decay.

.......................................................................................................................................[1]

650
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

26 (a) Distinguish between an α-particle and a β+-particle. 9702/23/M/J/16/Q8

...................................................................................................................................................

...............................................................................................................................................[3]

(b) State the equation that shows the decay of a particle in a nucleus that results in β+ emission.
All particles in the equation should be shown in the notation that is usually used for the
representation of nuclides.

[2]

(c) (i) State the quark composition of

1. a proton,

...........................................................................................................................................

2. a neutron.

...........................................................................................................................................
[2]

(ii) Use the quark model to explain the charge on a proton.

...........................................................................................................................................

.......................................................................................................................................[1]

651
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

9702/21/O/N/16/Q7
27 (a) State one difference between a hadron and a lepton.

...................................................................................................................................................

...............................................................................................................................................[1]

(b) (i) State the quark composition of a proton and of a neutron.

proton: ...............................................................................................................................

neutron: .............................................................................................................................
[2]

(ii) Use your answer in (i) to determine the quark composition of an α-particle.

quark composition: ........................................................................................................[1]

result 1: The vast majority of α-particles pass straight through the metal foil or are
deviated by small angles.

result 2: A very small minority of α-particles are scattered through angles greater
than 90°.

State what may be inferred from

(i) result 1,

...........................................................................................................................................

.......................................................................................................................................[1]

(ii) result 2.

...........................................................................................................................................

.......................................................................................................................................[2]

652
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

9702/22/O/N/16/Q6
28 (a) State one difference between a hadron and a lepton.

...................................................................................................................................................

...............................................................................................................................................[1]

(b) A proton within a nucleus decays to form a neutron and two other particles. A partial equation
to represent this decay is

1p 1n + ..... ...... + ..... ......

1 0 ..... .....
(i) Complete the equation. [2]

(ii) State the name of the interaction or force that gives rise to this decay.

.......................................................................................................................................[1]

(iii) State three quantities that are conserved in the decay.

1. ........................................................................................................................................

2. ........................................................................................................................................

3. ........................................................................................................................................
[3]

Explain your working.

[3]

653
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

29 (a) Use the quark model to show that 9702/21/M/J/17/Q7

(i) the charge on a proton is +e,

.......................................................................................................................................[1]

(ii) the charge on a neutron is zero.

.......................................................................................................................................[1]
(b) A nucleus of 9308Sr decays by the emission of a β– particle. A nucleus of 64Cu
29 decays by the
emission of a β+ particle.
(i) In Fig. 7.1, state the nucleon number and proton number for the nucleus produced in
each of these decay processes.

nucleus formed by β– decay nucleus formed by β+ decay

nucleon number

proton number

Fig. 7.1 [1]

(ii) State the name of the force responsible for β decay.

.......................................................................................................................................[1]
(iii) State the names of the leptons produced in each of the decay processes.

β– decay: ...........................................................................................................................

[1]
β+ decay: ............................................................................................................................

9702/22/M/J/17/Q8
–
30 (a) Describe two differences between the decay of a nucleus that emits a β particle and the
decay of a nucleus that emits a β+ particle.

1. ...............................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................

2. ...............................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................................
[2]
(b) In a simple quark model there are three types of quark. State the composition of the proton
and of the neutron in terms of these three quarks.

proton: ......................................................................................................................................

neutron: ....................................................................................................................................
[1]

654
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

9702/22/O/N/17/Q7
13
31 A stationary nucleus X decays by emitting a β+ particle to form a nucleus of carbon-13 (6C). An
incomplete equation to represent this decay is
13
X 6C + β+.

(a) State the name of the class (group) of particles that includes β+.

...............................................................................................................................................[1]

(b) For nucleus X, state the number of

protons, .....................

neutrons. ..................... [1]

Calculate the speed of this nucleus.

speed = ................................................. m s–1 [3]

(d) Explain why the sum of the kinetic energies of the carbon-13 nucleus and the β+ particle
cannot be equal to the total energy released by the decay process.

...................................................................................................................................................

...............................................................................................................................................[1]

655
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

9702/23/O/N/17/Q7
32 (a) A nucleus X decays by emitting a β+ particle to form a new nucleus, 23
11 Na.

State the number of nucleons and the number of neutrons in nucleus X.

number of nucleons = ...............................................................

number of neutrons = ...............................................................

[2]

(b) State one similarity and one difference between a β+ particle and a β– particle.

similarity: ...................................................................................................................................

difference: .................................................................................................................................
[2]

9702/21/M/J/18/Q7
33 A β– particle from a radioactive source is travelling in a vacuum with kinetic energy 460 eV. The
particle enters a uniform electric field at a right-angle and follows the path shown in Fig. 7.1.

path of β– particle
β– particle
kinetic energy 460 eV
uniform electric field
in the plane of the paper

Fig. 7.1

(a) The direction of the electric field is in the plane of the paper.
On Fig. 7.1, draw an arrow to show the direction of the electric field. [1]

(b) Calculate the speed of the β– particle before it enters the electric field.

speed = ................................................. m s–1 [3]

656
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

(c) Other β– particles from the same radioactive source travel outside the electric field along the
same incident path as that shown in Fig. 7.1.

State and briefly explain whether those β– particles will all follow the same path inside the
electric field.

...................................................................................................................................................

...............................................................................................................................................[2]

34 A stationary nucleus X decays to form nucleus Y, as shown by the equation 9702/22/M/J/18/Q7

X Y + β– + ν.

(a) In the above equation, draw a circle around all symbols that represent a lepton. [1]

(b) State the name of the particle represented by the symbol ν.

...............................................................................................................................................[1]

(d) By comparing the compositions of X and Y, state and explain whether they are isotopes.

...................................................................................................................................................

...............................................................................................................................................[2]

(e) The quark composition of one nucleon in X is changed during the emission of a β– particle.
Describe this change to the quark composition.

...................................................................................................................................................

...............................................................................................................................................[1]

657
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

9702/23/M/J/18/Q7
35 A graph of nucleon number A against proton number Z is shown in Fig. 7.1.

219
218
217
A
216
215
P
214
213
212
211
210
209
80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88
Z

Fig. 7.1

The graph shows a cross (labelled P) that represents a nucleus P.

Nucleus P decays by emitting an α particle to form a nucleus Q.

Nucleus Q then decays by emitting a β– particle to form a nucleus R.

(a) On Fig. 7.1, use a cross to represent

(i) nucleus Q (label this cross Q), [1]

(ii) nucleus R (label this cross R). [1]

(b) State the name of the class (group) of particles that includes the β– particle.

...............................................................................................................................................[1]

(c) The quark composition of one nucleon in Q is changed during the emission of the β– particle.
Describe this change to the quark composition.

...................................................................................................................................................

...............................................................................................................................................[1]

658
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

9702/21/O/N/18/Q5
36 (a) State what is meant by an electric field.

...................................................................................................................................................

.............................................................................................................................................. [1]

(b) A particle of mass m and charge q is in a uniform electric field of strength E. The particle has
acceleration a due to the field.

Show that
Eq
a= .
m

[2]

(c) A stationary nucleus X decays by emitting an α-particle to form a nucleus of plutonium, 240
94 Pu,
as shown.
240
X 94 Pu + α

(i) Determine the number of protons and the number of neutrons in nucleus X.

number of protons = ...............................................................

number of neutrons = ...............................................................

[2]
(ii) The total mass of the plutonium nucleus and the α-particle is less than that of nucleus X.
Explain this difference in mass.

...........................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................... [2]

659
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

(iii) The plutonium nucleus and the α-particle are both accelerated by the same uniform
electric field.
Use the expression in (b) to determine the ratio

acceleration of the α-particle

.
acceleration of the plutonium nucleus

ratio = ........................................................... [2]

9702/22/O/N/18/Q8
37 (a) In the following list, underline all particles that are leptons.
antineutrino positron proton quark [1]

(b) A stationary nucleus of magnesium-27, 27 –

12Mg, decays by emitting a β particle and γ radiation.
An incomplete equation to represent this decay is
27Mg
12 X + β– + γ.
(i) State the nucleon number and the proton number of nucleus X.

nucleon number = ...............................................................

proton number = ...............................................................

[2]

(ii) State the name of the interaction that gives rise to this decay.

.......................................................................................................................................[1]

(iii) State two possible reasons why the sum of the kinetic energy of the β– particle and the
energy of the γ radiation is less than the total energy released during the decay of the
magnesium nucleus.

1. .......................................................................................................................................

...........................................................................................................................................

2. .......................................................................................................................................

...........................................................................................................................................
[2]

660
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

9702/23/O/N/18/Q5
38 A particle of mass m and charge q is in a uniform electric field of strength E. The particle has
acceleration a due to the field.
(a) Show that
q a
= .
m E

[2]

(b) The particle has a charge of 4e where e is the elementary charge. The electric field strength
is 3.5 × 104 V m–1. The acceleration of the particle is 1.5 × 1012 m s–2.

Use the expression in (a) to show that the mass of the particle is 9.0 u.

[2]

number of protons = ...............................................................

number of neutrons = ...............................................................

[1]

(d) A second nucleus that is an isotope of the nucleus in (c) is in the same uniform electric field.
State and explain whether the electric field produces, for the two nuclei, the same
magnitudes of

(i) force,

...........................................................................................................................................

.......................................................................................................................................[1]

(ii) acceleration.

...........................................................................................................................................

.......................................................................................................................................[1]

661
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

9702/21/M/J/19/Q7
39 (a) One of the results of the α-particle scattering experiment is that a very small minority of the
α-particles are scattered through angles greater than 90°.

State what may be inferred about the structure of the atom from this result.

...................................................................................................................................................

...............................................................................................................................................[2]

(b) A hadron has an overall charge of +e, where e is the elementary charge. The hadron contains
three quarks. One of the quarks is a strange (s) quark.

(i) State the charge, in terms of e, of the strange (s) quark.

charge = .......................................................... [1]

(ii) The other two quarks in the hadron have the same charge as each other.

By considering charge, determine a possible type (flavour) of the other two quarks.
Explain your working.

...........................................................................................................................................

.......................................................................................................................................[2]

662
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

9702/22/M/J/19/Q6
40 (a) State what is meant by a field line (line of force) in an electric field.

...................................................................................................................................................

...............................................................................................................................................[1]

(b) An electric field has two different regions X and Y. The field strength in X is less than that in Y.
Describe a difference between the pattern of field lines (lines of force) in X and in Y.

...................................................................................................................................................

...............................................................................................................................................[1]

(i) Particle P and an α-particle are in the same uniform electric field. Calculate the ratio

magnitude of acceleration of particle P

.
magnitude of acceleration of α-particle

ratio = .......................................................... [3]

(ii) Particle P is a hadron composed of only two quarks. One of them is a down (d) quark.

By considering charge, determine a possible type (flavour) of the other quark.

Explain your working.

...........................................................................................................................................

.......................................................................................................................................[3]

663
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

9702/23/M/J/19/Q7
41 A sample of a radioactive substance may decay by the emission of either α-radiation or β-radiation
and/or γ-radiation.
State the type of radiation, one in each case, that:

(a) consists of leptons

...............................................................................................................................................[1]

(b) contains quarks

...............................................................................................................................................[1]

(c) cannot be deflected by an electric field

...............................................................................................................................................[1]

(d) has a continuous range of energies, rather than discrete values of energy.

...............................................................................................................................................[1]

9702/21/O/N/19/Q7
42 (a) The decay of a nucleus3518Ar by β+ emission is represented by
35 X + β+ + Y.
18 Ar
A nucleus X and two particles, β+ and
Y, are produced by the decay.
State:
(i) the proton number and the nucleon number of nucleus X

proton number = ...............................................................

nucleon number = ...............................................................

[1]
(ii) the name of the particle represented by the symbol Y.

..................................................................................................................................... [1]

(b) A hadron consists of two down quarks and one strange quark.
Determine, in terms of the elementary charge e, the charge of this hadron.

charge = ......................................................... [2]

664
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

9702/22/O/N/19/Q7
43 A nucleus of plutonium-238 ( 238
94 Pu) decays by emitting an α-particle to produce a new nucleus X
and 5.6 MeV of energy. The decay is represented by

238
94Pu X + α + 5.6 MeV.

(a) Determine the number of protons and the number of neutrons in nucleus X.

number of protons = ...............................................................

number of neutrons = ...............................................................

[2]

(b) Calculate the number of plutonium-238 nuclei that must decay in a time of 1.0 s to produce a
power of 0.15 W.

number = ......................................................... [2]

665
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

9702/23/O/N/19/Q7
44 A stationary nucleus of a radioactive isotope X decays by emitting an α-particle to produce a
nucleus of neptunium-237 and 5.5 MeV of energy. The decay is represented by

X 23 7 Np + α + 5.5 MeV.
93

(a) Calculate the number of protons and the number of neutrons in a nucleus of X.

number of protons = ...............................................................

number of neutrons = ...............................................................

[2]

(b) Explain why the energy transferred to the α-particle as kinetic energy is less than the 5.5 MeV
of energy released in the decay process.

...................................................................................................................................................

............................................................................................................................................. [1]

(c) A sample of X is used to produce a beam of α-particles in a vacuum. The number of α-particles
passing a fixed point in the beam in a time of 30 s is 6.9 × 1011.

(i) Calculate the average current produced by the beam of α-particles.

current = ...................................................... A [2]

(ii) Determine the total power, in W, that is produced by the decay of 6.9 × 1011 nuclei of X in
a time of 30 s.

power = ..................................................... W [2]

666
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

9702/21/M/J/20/Q6
45 (a) Two horizontal metal plates are separated by a distance of 2.0 cm in a vacuum, as shown in
Fig. 6.1.

horizontal
plate
+180 V

2.0 cm

–120 V
horizontal
plate

Fig. 6.1

The top plate has an electric potential of +180 V and the bottom plate has an electric potential
of –120 V.

(i) Determine the magnitude of the electric field strength between the plates.

electric field strength = ............................................... N C–1 [2]

(ii) State the direction of the electric field.

..................................................................................................................................... [1]
238
(b) An uncharged atom of uranium-238 ( 92U) has a change made to its number of orbital
electrons. This causes the atom to change into a new particle (ion) X that has an overall
charge of +2e, where e is the elementary charge.
(i) Determine the number of protons, neutrons and electrons in the particle (ion) X.

number of protons = ...............................................................

number of neutrons = ................................................................

number of electrons = ................................................................

[3]

667
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

(ii) The particle (ion) X is in the electric field in (a) at a point midway between the plates.

Determine the magnitude of the electric force acting on X.

force = ..................................................... N [2]

238
(iii) The nucleus of uranium-238 ( 92U) decays in stages, by emitting α-particles and
230
β– particles, to form a nucleus of thorium-230 ( 90Th).

Calculate the total number of α-particles and the total number of β– particles that are
emitted during the decay of uranium-238 to thorium-230.

number of α-particles = ...............................................................

number of β– particles = ...............................................................

[2]

668
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

9702/22/M/J/20/Q7
46 (a) A nucleus of an element X decays by emitting
β a

β ν

(i) State the number represented by each of the following letters.

P ..............................

...........................

........

[2]

at gives rise to

(b) A hadron is composed of three identical quarks and has a charge

e, whereof e+2 is the
elementary charge.

Determine a possible type (flavour) of the quarks.

lain your working.

..................................................................................................................................

............................................................................................................................ [2]

669
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

9702/23/M/J/20/Q7
47 A potential difference is applied between two horizontal metal plates that are a distance of 6.0 mm
apart in a vacuum, as shown in Fig. 7.1.

horizontal
– 450 V
plate

6.0 mm path of β– particle

horizontal radioactive 0V
plate source

Fig. 7.1

The top plate has a potential of –450 V and the bottom plate is earthed. Assume that there is a
uniform electric field produced between the plates.

A radioactive source emits a β– particle that travels through a hole in the bottom plate and along a
vertical path until it reaches the top plate.

(a) (i) Determine the magnitude and the direction of the electric force acting on the β– particle
as it moves between the plates.

magnitude of force = ........................................................... N

direction of force ...............................................................

[4]

(ii) Calculate the work done by the electric field on the β– particle for its movement from the
bottom plate to the top plate.

work done = ...................................................... J [2]

670
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

(b) The β– particle is emitted from the source with a kinetic energy of 3.4 × 10–16 J.

Calculate the speed at which the β– particle is emitted.

speed = ................................................ m s–1 [2]

(c) The β– particle is produced by the decay of a neutron.

(i) Complete the equation below to represent the decay of the neutron.

1
0 n 0
–1 β– + ........
........
......... + ........
........
.........
[2]

(ii) State the name of the group (class) of particles that includes:

1. neutrons

....................................................................................................................................

2. β– particles.

....................................................................................................................................
[2]

671
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

1 (a) rate of decay / activity / decay (of nucleus) is not affected by external
factors / environment / surroundings B2 [2]
I(f states specific factor(s), rather than giving general statement above,
then give 2 marks for two stated factors, but 1 mark only if one factor stated)
(b) (i) gamma / γ …………………………………………………………………………. B1 [1]
(ii) alpha / α …………………………………………………………………………… B1 [1]
(iii) gamma / γ …………………………………………………………………………. B1 [1]
(iv) beta / β …………………………………………………………………………….. B1 [1]

2 (a)

3 (a) either forms of same element

or atoms / nuclei with same number of protons ................................................M1
atoms / nuclei contain dife
f rent numbers of neutrons . A1 [2]
(use of ‘element’ rather than atoms / nuclei
scores max 1 mark)
[1]

185
75. Re
B1

either 0 0
− 1e or − 1 β . B1 [2]
4 (a)

–27 …. C1
= 3.95 × 10
–25 kg …. A1 [2]

(ii) volume =
4 –15) 3 =( 2.95 × 10 –42) C1
….
π019.8(
3 ytisned = 3
( 9. 5 × 10
–25)/(2.95 × 10 –42)
= 1.3 × 10
17 kg m –3 .… 1
A 2
[ ]
(d) nucleus contains most
of mass of atom … B1 either nuclear diameter/volume very much
less ht an h
t at of atom or atom is mostly (empty) space …. B1

672
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

5 (a)
or contains 2 protons and 2 neutrons ………………………………… B1 [1] (ii)
e.g. range is a few cm in air/sheet of thin
paper
speed up to 0.1 c
causes dense ionisation in air
positively charged or deflected in magnetic or electric fields
(any two, 1 each to max 2) ………………………………………………….. B2 [2] (b) (i)
4
2α ……………………………………………………………………………… B1
either 11 p or 11H ……………………………………………………………….. B1 [2] (ii) 1 initiall

–13
= 1.76 × 10–13 J …………………………. C1
EK = ½mv2 ……………………………………………………………….. C1
1.76 × 10–13 = ½ × 4 × 1.66 × 10–27 × v2 ……………………………… C1
v = 7.3 × 106 m s–1 ……………………………………………………..... A1 [4]
use of 1.67 × 10–27 kg for mass is a maximum of 3/4
6 (a) either different forms of same element
or nuclei have same number of protons M1
different numbers of neutrons (in the nucleus) A1 [2]
(b) (i) proton number conserved B1
nucleon number conserved B1
mass-energy conserved B1 [3]
(ii) 1. Z = 36 A1 [1]
2. x = 3 A1 [1]

7 (a) (i) most α-particles were deviated through small angles B2 [2]
( allow 1 mark for ‘straight through’ / undeviated)
(ii) small fraction of α-particles deviated through large angles M1
greater than 90° (allow rebound back) A1 [2]
(b) e.g. β-particles have a range of energies
β-particles deviated by (orbital) electrons
β-particle has (very) small mass
(any two sensible suggestions, 1 each, max 2) B2 [2]
Do not allow β-particles have negative charge or β-particles have high speed

8 (a) nuclei with the same number of protons B1

and a different number of neutrons B1 [2]
(b) (i) (mass + energy) (taken together) is conserved (B1)
momentum is conserved (B1)
one point required max. 1 B1 [1]
(ii) a = 1 and b = 0 B1
x = 56 B1
y = 92 B1 [3]
(c) proton number = 90 B1
nucleon number = 235 B1 [2]

673

either helium nucleus

11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

9(a) (i) the half life / count rate / rate of decay / activity is the same no matter what
external factors / environmental factors or two named factors such as
temperature and pressure changes are applied B1 [1]
(ii) the observations of the count rate / count rate / rate of decay / activity /
radioactivity during decay shows variations / fluctuations B1 [1]
(b)
property α-particle β-particle γ-radiation

charge (+)2e –e 0

mass 4u 9.11 × 10–31 kg 0

speed 0.01 to 0.1 c up to 0.99 c c

one mark for each correct line B3 [3]

10 (a) (i) 2 protons and 2 neutrons B1 [1]

(ii) e.g. positively charged 2e
mass 4u
constant energy
absorbed by thin paper or few cm of air (3 cm → 8 cm)
(not low penetration)
highly ionizing
deflected in electric/magnetic fields
(One mark for each property, max 2) B2 [2]
(b) mass-energy is conserved B1
difference in mass ‘changed’ into a form of energy B1
energy in the form of kinetic energy of the products / γ-radiation
photons / e.m. radiation B1 [3]
11 (a)

12 (a) thin paper reduces count rate hence α B1

addition of 1 cm of aluminium causes little more count rate reduction hence only
other radiation is γ B1 [2]
(b) magnetic field perpendicular to direction of radiation B1
look for a count rate in expected direction / area if there were negatively
charged radiation present. If no count rate recorded then β not present. B1 [2]

674

SUS
GE TED ANSWR
E S
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

13 (a) 92 protons in the nucleus and 92 electrons around nucleus B1

143 neutrons (in the nucleus) B1 [2]
(b) (i) α-particle travels short distance in air B1 [1]
(ii) very small proportion in backwards direction / large angles B1
majority pass through with no /small deflections B1
either most of mass is in very small volume (nucleus) and is charged or most of atom is
empty space B1 [3]
(c) I = Q / t C1
n / t = (1.5 × 10–12) /( 2 × 1.6 × 10–19) C1
n / t = 4.7 × 106 s–1 A1 [3]

3
14 (a) 2 He+ 32 He → 42 He + 2 11p + Q
A numbers correct (4 and 1) B1
Z numbers correct (2 and 1) B1 [2]
(b) both nuclei have 2 protons B1
the two isotopes have 1 neutron and two neutrons B1 [2]
[allow 1 for ‘same number of protons but different number of neutrons’]
(c) proton number and neutron number B1
energy – mass B1
momentum B1 [2]
(d) (i) γ radiation B1 [1]
(ii) product(s) must have kinetic energy B1 [1]
(e) 13.8 MeV = 13.8 × 1.6 × 10–19 × 106 (= 2.208 × 10–12) C1
60 = n × 13.8 × 1.6 × 10–13
n = 2.7(2) × 1013 s–1 A1 [2]

15 (a) (i) electron B1 [1]

(ii) any two:
can be deflected by electric and magnetic fields or negatively charged /
absorbed by few (1 – 4) mm of aluminum / 0.5 to 2 m or metres for range in air /
speed up to 0.99c / range of speeds / energies B2 [2]
(iii) decay occurs and cannot be affected by external / environmental factors
or two stated factors such as chemical / pressure / temperature / humidity B1 [1]
(b) 3 and 0 for superscript numbers B1
2 and –1 for subscript numbers B1 [2]
3 –19 –16
(c) energy = 5.7 × 10 × 1.6 × 10 (= 9.12 × 10 J) C1
−16
2 × 9.12 × 10
v2 = C1
9.11 × 10−31
v = 4.5 × 107 m s–1 A1 [3]
(d) both have 1 proton and 1 electron B1
1 neutron in hydrogen-2 and 2 neutrons in hydrogen-3 B1 [2]
(special case: for one mark ‘same number of protons / atomic number
different number of neutrons’)

675
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

16 (a) the majority/most went straight through

or were deviated by small angles B1
a very small proportion/a few were deviated by large angles B1
small angles described as < 10° and large angles described as >90° B1 [3]
(b) most of the atom is empty space/nucleus very small compared with atom B1
mass and charge concentrated in (very small) nucleus B1
correct links made with statements in (a) B1 [3]

17 (a) (i) W = 206 and X = 82

Y = 4 and Z = 2 A1
(ii) mass-energy is conserved A1 [2]
mass on rhs is less because energy is released B1
B1 [2]
(b) not affected by external conditions/factors/environment
or two examples temperature and pressure B1 [1]

18 (a) (i) the direction of the fields is the same OR fields are uniform OR constant
electric field strength OR E = V / d with symbols explained B1 [1]
(ii) reduce p.d. across plates B1
increase separation of plates B1 [2]
(iii) α opposite charge to β (as deflection in opposite direction) B1
β has a range of velocities OR energies (as different deflections) and
α all have same velocity OR energy (as constant deflection) B1
α are more massive (as deflection is less for greater field strength) B1 [3]
(b) W = 234 and X = 90 B1
Y = 4 and Z = 2 B1 [2]
(c) A = 32 and B = 16 and C = 0 and D = –1 B1 [1]

19 (a) α: helium nucleus

β: electron
γ: electromagnetic radiation / wave / ray or photon
three correct 2 / 2, two correct 1 / 2 B2 [2]
(b) (i) atomic number / proton number / Z –2, nucleon / mass number / A –4 B1 [1]
(ii) atomic number / proton number / Z +1
nucleon / mass number / A no change B1 [1]
(iii) no change in proton or mass number or “no change” B1 [1]

676
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

20 (a) (i) A: 206, nucleon(s) or neutron(s) and proton(s) }

B: 82, proton(s) } all correct A1 [1]
(ii) kinetic / EK / KE B1 [1]

(b) energy = 5.3 × 1.6 × 10–13 (J) [= 8.48 × 10–3 (J)] C1

18 –13
power = (7.1 × 10 × 5.3 × 1.6 × 10 ) / (3600 × 24) = 70 (69.7) W

21 (a) 92 protons and 143 neutrons B1 [1]

(b) value
a 1
b 0 (a and b both required) B1
c 141 B1
d 55 B1 [3]
(c) kinetic energy (of products) or gamma/γ (radiation or photon) B1 [1]
(d) (total) mass on left-hand side/reactants is greater than (total) mass on right-hand
side/products M1
difference in mass is (converted to) energy A1 [2]

22 (a) (i) (rate of decay) not affected by any external factors or changes in
temperature and pressure etc. B1 [1]
(ii) two protons and two neutrons B1 [1]
(b) (i) (total) mass before decay/on left-hand side is greater than (total) mass M1
on right-hand side/after the decay
the difference in mass is released as kinetic energy of the products A1 [2]
(may also be some γ radiation) (to conserve mass-energy)
(ii) (6.2 × 106 × 1.6 × 10−19 =) 9.9(2) × 10−13 J A1 [1]

1
23 (a) 1p B1
0 − 0
−1 β and 0ν B1

(b) an (electron) antineutrino B1

677
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

24 (a) hadron: neutron/proton

and
lepton: electron/(electron) neutrino B1 [1]
(allow other correct particles)

(b) (i) proton: up up down or uud B1 [1]

(ii) neutron: up down down or udd B1 [1]

(c) (i) neutron → proton + electron + (electron) antineutrino B1 [1]

(ii) up down down (quarks) change to up up down (quarks)
or
down (quark) changes to up (quark) B1 [1]

25 (a) both electron and neutrino: lepton(s) B1

both neutron and proton: hadron(s)/baryon(s) B1 [2]
1
(b) (i) 1p → 10n + 01β + 00ν

correct symbols for particles M1

correct numerical values (allow no values on neutrino) A1 [2]
(ii) up up down or uud
(iii) weak (nuclear) B1 [1]

26 (a) α-particle is 2 protons and 2 neutrons; β -particle is positive electron/positron

α-particle has charge +2e; β -particle has +e charge

α-particle has mass 4u; β-particle has mass (1/2000)u

α-particle made up of hadrons; β+-particle a lepton
any three B3 [3]
1
(b) 1p → 10n + 01β + 00ν

all terms correct M1

all numerical values correct (ignore missing values on ν) A1 [2]
(c) (i) 1. proton: up, up, down / uud B1
2. neutron: up, down, down / udd B1 [2]
(ii) up quark has charge +2 / 3 (e) and down quark has charge –1 / 3 (e)
total is +1(e) B1 [1]

678

SUGGESTED ANSWERS
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

27 (a) hadron not a fundamental particle/lepton is fundamental particle

or
hadron made of quarks/lepton not made of quarks
or
strong force/interaction acts on hadrons/does not act on leptons B1 [1]
(b) (i) proton: up, up, down / uud B1
neutron: up, down, down / udd B1 [2]

(ii) composition: 2(uud) + 2(udd)

= 6 up, 6 down / 6u, 6d B1 [1]
(c) (i) most of the atom is empty space
or
the nucleus (volume) is (very) small compared to the atom B1 [1]
(ii) nucleus is (positively) charged B1
the mass is concentrated in (very small) nucleus/small region/small
volume/small core
or
the majority of mass in (very small) nucleus/small region/small volume/small
core B1 [2]

28 (a) hadron not a fundamental particle/lepton is fundamental particle

or hadron made of quarks/lepton not made of quarks
or strong force/interaction acts on hadrons/does not act on leptons B1 [1]

0 (+)
(b) (i) 0
1 e(+ ) or 1β B1
0
ν
0 (e ) B1 [2]
(ii) weak (nuclear force / interaction) B1 [1]
(iii) • mass-energy
• momentum
• proton number
• nucleon number
• charge
Any three of the above quantities, 1 mark each B3 [3]
(c) (quark structure of proton is) up, up, down or uud B1
up/u (quark charge) is (+)⅔(e), down/d (quark charge) is –⅓(e) C1
⅔e + ⅔e – ⅓e = (+)e A1 [3]

679
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

29 (a) (i) (proton is uud so) (2 / 3)e + (2 / 3)e – (1 / 3)e = e B1

(a) (ii) (neutron is udd so) (2 / 3)e – (1 / 3)e –(1 / 3)e = 0 B1
(b)(i) β– β+ B1

nucleon number 90 64
proton number 39 28
all correct
(ii) weak (nuclear force/interaction) B1
(iii) β– decay: electron and (electron) antineutrino B1
β+ decay: positron and (electron) neutrino
all correct

30 ( )β – emission: neutron changes to proton (+ beta–/electron) B1

and β+ emission: proton changes to neutron (+ beta+/positron)
β– emission: (electron) antineutrino also emitted B1 E proton: up up
and β+ emission: (electron) neutrino also emitted neutron: up d

31 (a) B1
(b) and neutrons: 6 A1
(c) C1 ×10
= 0.80
6 – 91
×1.60 ×10 C1 ×10
= 1.28
– 31
(J)
A1
31– 62–
v2 =2 ×1.28 ×10 / 2. ×10
v = 3.4 ×10
6 1–
m s ν
(d) B1

32 (a) nucleons = 23 B1

(b)

680

SUGGESTED ANSWERS
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

33 (a) arrow pointing vertically down the page B1

2
(b) E = ½mv C1
E = 460 × 1.60 × 10–19 (= 7.36 × 10–17 (J)) C1
v = [(2 × 460 × 1.60 × 10–19) / (9.11 × 10–31)]½ A1
= 1.3 × 107 m s–1
–
(c) β particles have range of/different/various speeds/velocities/momenta/energies M1
so they follow different paths A1

34 (a) circle(s) drawn only around E– and symbols B1

(b) (electron) antineutrino B1
(c) kinetic (energy) B1
(d) Y has one more proton (and one less neutron)/X
has one less proton (and one more neutron) M1
or Y has more protons (and fewer neutrons)/X has fewer protons (and more neutrons)
or a neutron changes to a proton
or the number of protons increases
(so) not isotopes A1
(e) up down down changes to up up down or udd uud
o B1
or down changes to up or d ou

35 (a) (i) Q plotted at (82, 210) A1

(ii) R plotted at (83, 210) A1
(b) lepton(s) B1
(c) up down down changes to up up down or udd
uud
o B1
or down changes to up or d ou

36 (a) region (of space) where a force acts on a (stationary) charge B1

(b) E = F/Q B1
Eq A1
F = ma and (so) a =
m
(c) (i) protons = 96 A1
neutrons = 148 A1
(i) mass-energy is conserved/mass change is ‘seen’ as energy B1
energy released as gamma (radiation)/KE of α/KE of Pu B1
2
4
0
1
.
6
6
1
0
2 9
4 4
0

1
9

2
7

(iii) 2 2 × 1.60 × 10 − × × − C1
4
1
.
6
6
1
0

9
4
1
.
6
0
1
0

ratio = × or ratio = ×
2
7

1
9

4 × × − × × −

ratio = 1.3 A1

681

Q
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

37 (a) antineutrino and positron both underlined (and no other particles) B1

(b) (i) nucleon number = 27 A1
proton number = 13 A1
(ii) weak (nuclear force/interaction) B1
(iii) an (electron) antineutrino / ν ( e ) is produced (and this has energy) B1
X has kinetic energy B1

38 (a) E = F/Q M1

F = ma and (so) q / m = a / E A1

(b) m = (4 × 1.60 × 10–19 × 3.5 × 104) / 1.5 × 1012 (= 1.49 × 10–26 kg) B1

= 1.49 × 10–26 / 1.66 × 10–27 = 9.0 (u) A1

(d) (i) nuclei have the same charge and so same (magnitudes of) force B1

(ii) nuclei have different masses and same force and so different B1
(magnitudes of) acceleration

39 (a) nucleus is charged B1

the mass is concentrated in (very small) nucleus B1

or
the majority of the mass is in (very small) nucleus

(b)(i) –(1 / 3)e B1

(ii) 2q – (1 / 3)e = e so q = (2 / 3)e M1

up / u (quarks) (allow charm or top quarks) A1

40 (a) path/direction in which a (free) positive charge will move B1

(b) (lines) closer together in Y/further apart in X B1
(c) ( ) a = Eq / m C1
or
F = Eq and F = ma
ratio = (1e / 0.15 u) × (4 u / 2e) or 1 / 0.15 × 4 / 2 C1
ratio = 13 A1
( ) down quark charge is –(1 / 3)e C1
– (1 / 3)e + q = –1e so q = –(2 / 3)e A1
(–(2 / 3)e is) anti-up / u (quark) (allow charm or top antiquark) B1

682
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

41 (a) beta/β B1
(b) alpha/α B1
(c) gamma/γ B1
(d) beta/β B1

42 (a) proton number = 17 A1

and
nucleon number = 35
(electron) neutrino B1
(b) ( ) d/down (quark charge) is –⅓(e) C1
or
two d/down (quark charges) is –⅔(e)
( ) or
s/strange (quark charge) is –⅓(e)
charge = –⅓(e) –⅓(e) –⅓(e) A1

= –1(e)

number of protons = 92 A1
number of neutrons = 142 A1
5.6 MeV = 5.6 × 1.60 × 10–19 × 106 (= 8.96 × 10–13 J) C1
number = 0.15 / (5.6 × 1.60 × 10–13) A1
number = 1.7 × 1011
or
0.15 W = 0.15 / (1.60 × 10–19 × 106) (= 9.38 × 1011 MeV s–1) (C1)
number = 9.38 × 1011 / 5.6 (A1)
number = 1.7 × 1011

number of protons = 95 A1
number of neutrons = 146 A1
Np/neptunium (nucleus) has kinetic energy B1
or
gamma/γ-radiation produced
I = NQ / t C1
I= (6.9 × 10 11 × 2 × 1.60 × 10–19) / 30 A1
= 7.4 × 10–9 A
P = (6.9 × 1011 × 5.5 × 106 × 1.60 × 10–19) / 30 C1
= 0.020 W A1

683

(a)

(b)
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

45 (a)(i) E = ΔV / Δd C1
E = (180 + 120) / (2.0 × 10–2) A1
= 1.5 × 104 N C–1
(ii) vertically downwards B1
(b) (i) number of protons = 92 A1
number of neutrons = 146 A1
number of electrons = 90 A1
(ii) F = EQ C1
= 1.5 × 104 × 2 × 1.60 × 10–19 A1
= 4.8 × 10–15 N
(iii) number of α-particles = 2 A1
number of β– particles = 2 A1

46 (a)(i) P = 0 and Q = 39 A1

R = (+)1 and S = 20 A1

(ii) weak (nuclear force/interaction) B1

(b) charge of quark(s) = (+) 2e / 3 B1

up/u (quarks)
B1

684
11. Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

E = V /d or E = F / Q C1

F = (450 × 1.60 × 10–19) / 6.0 × 10–3 C1

= 1.2 × 10–14 N A1

direction: vertically downwards B1

work done = Fs or Fd or EQd C1

= (–)1.2 × 10–14 × 6.0 × 10–3 A1

= (–)7.2 × 10–17 J

work done = VQ (C1)

= (–)450 × 1.60 × 10–19 (A1)

= (–)7.2 × 10–17 J

E = ½mv2 C1

3.4 × 10–16 = ½ × 9.11 × 10–31 × v2 A1

v = 2.7 × 107 m s–1

1
1p
A1

0
ν (e)
0
A1

1. hadrons B1

2. leptons B1

685

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Topic 11 Particles Physics

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Topic 11 Particles Physics

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11.

Particle Physics AS Physics Topical Paper 2

TOPIC 11: PARTICLES PHYSICS

11 represent α- and β-decay by a radioactive decay equation of the form 238

11.2 Fundamental particles

(a) Explain what is meant by spontaneous decay.

(b) State the type of emission, one in each case, that

(i) is not affected by electric and magnetic fields,

(ii) produces the greatest density of ionisation in a medium,

(iv) has a range of energies, rather than discrete values.

(d) The nucleus N could be one of several different isotopes of gold.

Tungsten-184 is stable but tungsten-185 undergoes -decay to form rhenium (Re).

(a) Explain what is meant by isotopes.

(b) The -decay of nuclei of tungsten-185 is spontaneous and random.

State what is meant by

(i) spontaneous decay,

(ii) random decay.

4 One of the isotopes of uranium is uranium-238 ( 238

(a) State what is meant by isotopes.

(b) For a nucleus of uranium-238, state

(i) the number of protons,

(ii) the number of neutrons.

(c) A uranium-238 nucleus has a radius of 8.9 × 10–15 m.

Calculate, for a uranium-238 nucleus,

(i) its mass,

mass = ............................................ kg [2]

(ii) its mean density.

density = ...................................... kg m–3 [2]

(d) The density of a lump of uranium is 1.9 × 104 kg m–3.

(i) what is meant by an α-particle,

(ii) two properties of α-particles.

(i) Complete the nuclear equation for this reaction.

1. Suggest how it is possible for mass-energy to be conserved in this reaction.

2. Calculate the speed of an α-particle having kinetic energy of 1.1 MeV.

speed = ....................................... m s–1 [4]

(b) One possible nuclear reaction involving uranium is

235U + 10n 141Ba + 92Kr + x 10n + energy.

(i) State three quantities that are conserved in a nuclear reaction.

(ii) For this reaction, determine the value of

small size of the nucleus.

(a) State the result that provided evidence for

for this type of scattering experiment.

Explain the term isotope.

State the values of a, b, x and y.

proton number = ......................................................

nucleon number = ......................................................

α-particle β-particle γ-radiation

(i) State the composition of the nucleus of X.

State the number represented by the letter

Explain why mass seems not to be conserved.

(a) the absorption properties of the radiation,

(b) the effects of a magnetic field on the radiation.

13 (a) Describe the structure of an atom of the nuclide 235U.

vacuum detector of _-particles

The detector of α-particles, D, is moved around the path labelled WXY.

(i) Explain why the apparatus is enclosed in a vacuum.

number = ........................................... s–1 [3]

(a) Complete the nuclear equation. [2]

(d) Radiation is produced in this nuclear reaction.

(i) a possible type of radiation that may be produced,

number = ........................................... s–1 [2]

(i) State the nature of a β-particle.

(ii) State two properties of β-radiation.

(iii) Explain the meaning of spontaneous radioactive decay.

Complete the equation.

(c) The β-particle is emitted with an energy of 5.7 × 103 eV.

Calculate the speed of the β-particle.

speed = ...................................... m s–1 [3]

nuclear reaction for this decay is given by

(a) (i) State the values of W ...............

(ii) Explain why mass seems not to be conserved in the reaction.

(b) The reaction is spontaneous. Explain the meaning of spontaneous.

of α-particles as they pass between the plates is shown in Fig. 7.1.

electric field metal plate

by β-particles. The deflection of β-particles is shown in Fig. 7.2.

electric field metal plate

Tungsten-184 is stable but tungsten-185 undergoes -decay to form rhenium (Re).

(b) The -decay of nuclei of tungsten-185 is spontaneous and random.