Question detail
If the background count rate is 5 counts per minute and the measured count rate is 20 counts per minute, what is the corrected count rate? Use the ionisation comparison context to keep Half-lives and the random nature of radioactive decay distinct from nearby atomic and nuclear radiation ideas.
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Atoms and nuclear radiation
Question
- A. 15 counts per minute (halflives and the random nature)
- B. 20 counts per minute (halflives and the random nature)
- C. 25 counts per minute (halflives and the random nature)
- D. 5 counts per minute (halflives and the random nature)
Answer
The correct answer is 15 counts per minute (halflives and the random nature).
Explanation
The correct answer is 15 counts per minute (halflives and the random nature). It supports the learning objective: Correct measured count rate by subtracting background count rate.. The correct answer is 15 counts per minute (halflives and the random nature). It directly supports the learning objective: Correct measured count rate by subtracting background count rate.. In Half-lives and the random nature of radioactive decay, this is the best option because it matches the specific ionisation comparison context; the other options mix up nearby ideas such as activity, count rate, isotope notation, radiation type, or nuclear-equation changes.
Common mistake
Subtracting Background Count Rate
Students often forget to subtract the background count rate from the measured count rate, leading to inaccurate results.
Always remember to subtract the background count rate from the measured count rate to find the true count rate from the radioactive source.
Related flashcards
Flashcard 1 of 5
Related practice questions
Question 1 of 5
Choose an answer, get feedback, then move sideways through the set.