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IB Physics HL E.3.10 Radiation penetration and ionization Question Bank

Practise IB Physics SL/HL E.3.10 by applying radiation penetration and ionization concepts to exam-style physics questions.

Syllabus
First assessment 2025
Course
Physics HL
Level
HL

Exam points

  • identify the relevant physical quantity, model or diagram
  • apply the correct equation and units to the evidence
  • justify the result using conservation laws, fields or energy relationships

E.3.10—Radiation penetration and ionization question 1

[Maximum number: 2]

This question is about the use of radioactive isotopes.

Patients suffering from prostate cancer can experience metastatic bones. As part of the cancer treatment, patients are injected with an isotope of strontium which is readily taken up by the bones.

The table shows the half-life and emission information for strontium-89 (Sr-89) and strontium-90 (Sr-90).

Table for Question E.3.10—Radiation penetration and ionization question 1 — IB Physics HL

Beta particles have a quality factor of 1 .

State, in terms of range, two reasons why Sr -89 is the more suitable choice of isotope to be used in the treatment of bone cancers.

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