Waves QWC practice question
Question
Explain how different parts of the electromagnetic spectrum are useful in communication and medicine, and why safety precautions are needed for some uses. [6 marks]
Student guidance
Choose named spectrum regions and make the ionising-radiation safety link clear.
Expected physics points
- radio waves can carry communication signals
- microwaves can carry satellite or mobile signals
- infrared can be used for remote controls or thermal imaging
- X-rays can image bones
- gamma radiation can sterilise equipment or treat cancer
- X-rays and gamma are ionising so exposure should be limited or shielded
Mark scheme points
- Gives a valid communication use for radio waves.
- Gives a valid communication use for microwaves.
- Gives a valid use for infrared radiation.
- Gives X-ray imaging of bones as a medical use.
- Gives a valid medical or sterilising use for gamma radiation.
- Explains that X-rays and gamma are ionising and need exposure control or shielding.
Indicative content
- radio waves can carry communication signals
- microwaves can carry satellite or mobile signals
- infrared can be used for remote controls or thermal imaging
- X-rays can image bones
- gamma radiation can sterilise equipment or treat cancer
- X-rays and gamma are ionising so exposure should be limited or shielded
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