PH-694
Background radiation
Physics · Secondary 3 · Hard · Background radiation
A switched-off radioactive source is stored in a thick lead box in a lab. A Geiger–Müller tube placed nearby still measures about 10 counts per minute. Which statement best explains this reading?
- The lead box produces radiation that the detector measures.
- Background radiation from the environment is being detected.
- The Geiger–Müller tube is faulty and counting randomly.
- Radiation from the stored source passes straight through the lead.
Sign in to check your answer and see the hint and the worked explanation. Free on PrepLab High.