Question detail
Which of the following statements is true regarding isotopes with very long half-lives?
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. They are ideal for short-term medical treatments.
- B. They can pose a long-term environmental hazard.
- C. They decay rapidly, making them safe for use.
- D. They are only used in research applications.
Answer
The correct answer is B: They can pose a long-term environmental hazard..
Explanation
The correct answer is B: They can pose a long-term environmental hazard.. This supports the learning objective "Explain why a very long half-life can increase long-term hazard." in Different half-lives of radioactive isotopes 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 Different half-lives of radioactive isotopes idea: They are ideal for short-term medical treatments.; They decay rapidly, making them safe for use.; They are only used in research applications..
Common mistake
Long Half-Life Misunderstanding
Students often confuse a long half-life with a low hazard, thinking it means less risk over time.
Emphasize that a long half-life means the radioactive material remains active and potentially hazardous for a longer duration, increasing long-term risk.
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