Question detail
A Geiger counter measures a count rate of 150 counts per minute (cpm) in a location where the background radiation is known to be 30 cpm. Calculate the corrected count rate.
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
Question
Type
exam_style
Style
Topic
Hazards and uses of radioactive emissions and of background radiation
Question
A Geiger counter measures a count rate of 150 counts per minute (cpm) in a location where the background radiation is known to be 30 cpm. Calculate the corrected count rate.
Answer
120 cpm
Explanation
The corrected count rate is found by subtracting the background count rate from the measured count rate, which tests the student's understanding of how to account for background radiation in measurements.
Common mistake
Incorrect Count Rate Calculation
Students often forget to subtract the background count rate from the measured count rate, leading to incorrect results.
Always remember to use the formula: Corrected Count Rate = Measured Count Rate - Background Count Rate.
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