Three- and four-mark questions
These are similar to one- and two-mark questions but you will be expected to write in more depth for three- and four-mark questions.
Edexcel questions courtesy of Pearson Education Ltd.
Sample question 1 - Foundation and Higher
Question
The figure shows the structure of an oxygen-14 atom:
Complete the four labels on the figure. [4 marks]
In the oxygen nucleus there are always 8 protons. There are 8 green particles so these are the protons [1]. The six grey particles must be the neutrons [1].
Sample question 2 - Higher
Question
Iodine-131 emits beta particles and gamma rays.
A patient is only given a small dose of iodine-131 during treatment.
Hospital staff who administer this treatment to a lot of patients are potentially exposed to greater risk.
Explain the dangers to hospital staff and state one safety precaution taken. [3 marks]
An explanation linking any two of:
- gamma rays are highly penetrating
- cause DNA/cells to mutate/kill cells/cause cancer
- if subjected to repeated exposure
[2]
Safety - any one from:
- warning signs
- restricted access
- shielding
- do not touch
- relevant protective clothing
- monitor dose
[1]
Sample question 3 - Foundation and Higher
Question
Cobalt-60 is radioactive.
It emits beta radiation and gamma radiation.
Describe the differences between beta radiation and gamma radiation. [3 marks]
A description including any three of the following points:
- beta (radiation) is electron(s)
- beta has mass
- beta has (negative) charge
- beta is a better ioniser
- beta is less penetrating
- gamma radiation is electromagnetic
- wave
- gamma travels at a speed of light
- gamma is just energy
[3]