Edexcel A-Level Physics A2 4.5.120 Relativistic Lifetime Increase Questions

Practise Edexcel A-Level Physics relativistic lifetime increase by explaining why high-speed particles travel further before decay.

Exam points

explain lifetime increase and decay-rate decrease for particles moving close to light speed
justify atmospheric muon or pion observations by comparing travel distance with non-relativistic lifetime

[Maximum number: 3]

A spark chamber consists of a set of parallel metal plates. It can reveal the path of a high energy particle as shown.

Figure for Question Edexcel A-Level Physics A2 4.5.120 Relativistic Lifetime Increase Questions question 1 — Edexcel A-Level Physics A2

A potential difference of 10.5 kV is applied across two adjacent plates as shown below.

Most of the particles detected in the spark chamber are muons. The muons were created in the upper atmosphere. Muons normally have a very short lifetime and should have decayed before they reach the surface of the Earth.

Explain why these muons reach the surface of the Earth.

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Edexcel A-Level Physics A2 4.5.120 Relativistic Lifetime Increase Questions question 1