DP Physics (last assessment 2024)
Question 19N.3.HL.TZ0.c
Date | November 2019 | Marks available | [Maximum mark: 3] | Reference code | 19N.3.HL.TZ0.c |
Level | HL | Paper | 3 | Time zone | TZ0 |
Command term | Discuss | Question number | c | Adapted from | N/A |
c.
[Maximum mark: 3]
19N.3.HL.TZ0.c
Discuss one process by which elements heavier than iron are formed in stars.
[3]
Markscheme
ALTERNATIVE 1 — s-process
s-process involves «slow» neutron capture ✔
in s-process beta decay occurs before another neutron is captured ✔
s-process occurs in giant stars «AGB stars» ✔
s-process terminates at bismuth/lead/polonium ✔
ALTERNATIVE 2 — r-process
r-process involves «rapid» neutron capture ✔
in r-process further neutrons are captured before the beta decay occurs ✔
r-process occurs in type II supernovae ✔
r-process can lead to elements heavier than bismuth/lead/polonium ✔
NOTE: If the type of the process (r or s/rapid or slow) is not mentioned, award [2 max].
