Chapter 31, Problem 23Q

To determine

How radioactive tracers be used to find a leak in a pipe?

Answer to Problem 23Q

Solution:

Keep an alpha particle source inside the pipe. Then, keep a GM counter inside the pipe and keep a count of radiation in the pipe. Use alpha particles because they are slow moving and less penetrating. If the amount of radiation is less, there is a possibility of leakage. By keeping a GM counter outside the pipe, the exact location of the leakage can be detected.

Explanation of Solution

In a chemical compound, a radio isotope will replace atoms present in it. Due to it, a radioactive decay process takes place. A chemical reaction begins and during this mechanism a radio isotope changes from reactant to product.