# A scientist is working with a radioactive source that emits beta radiation. Describe what beta radiation is and explain why a thin sheet of aluminium is able to stop beta radiation but would not stop gamma radiation.

> Eduqas GCSE Physics — 9.2 Absorption and emission of ionising radiations · Describe and Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Beta radiation consists of fast-moving electrons (emitted from the nucleus)
2. Beta particles have a small mass / are relatively light particles, so they can be absorbed by a few millimetres of aluminium
3. Gamma radiation is a high-energy electromagnetic wave / has no mass and no charge
4. Gamma radiation is very penetrating and requires thick lead or thick concrete to be significantly absorbed / aluminium is not thick or dense enough to stop gamma

## Key terms

- [beta radiation](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/beta-radiation)
- [gamma radiation](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/gamma-radiation)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Eduqas GCSE Physics](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Describe and Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/a-scientist-is-working-with-a-714b623e) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.