Physics GCSE
choosing a half-life
What choosing a half-life means in Physics GCSE, as defined for AQA.
Definition of choosing a half-life
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain choosing a half-life in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
A suitable half-life is long enough for the source to be useful but short enough that the activity does not persist and cause harm.
Topics that use choosing a half-life
- Radioactive decay and nuclear radiation (AQA GCSE)
Related terms
- activity
- background radiation
- gamma ray
- independence from conditions
- ionising power
- neutron emission
- penetration
- randomness
Using choosing a half-life in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Physics questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
Start free
All Physics GCSE termsA week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge