Question detail
Why is alpha radiation used in smoke alarms?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Hazards and uses of radioactive emissions and of background radiation
Question
- A. It has high penetration power
- B. It is easily detected
- C. It can ionise air effectively
- D. It is safe for human exposure
Answer
The correct answer is C: It can ionise air effectively.
Explanation
The correct answer is C: It can ionise air effectively. This supports the learning objective "Explain how smoke entering an ionisation smoke alarm changes the current and triggers an alarm." in Uses of nuclear radiation because it uses the correct atomic and nuclear radiation relationship for Hazards and uses of radioactive emissions and of background radiation. The other options are less suitable because they do not match the required Uses of nuclear radiation idea: It has high penetration power; It is easily detected; It is safe for human exposure.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Smoke Alarm Function
Students often think that smoke alarms only detect smoke particles without understanding the role of ionisation.
Explain that smoke entering the ionisation chamber disrupts the ionisation process, reducing current flow and triggering the alarm.
Related flashcards
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Related practice questions
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