how can a scientist assess whether a pure niobium (nb) sample is responsible for contaminating the lab with…

how can a scientist assess whether a pure niobium (nb) sample is responsible for contaminating the lab with radioactivity?\ntest the niobium sample to see whether it now contains other elements.\ntest the niobium sample for the presence of niobium oxide compounds.\nheat the niobium, and see if the level of radioactivity in the lab increases.\nplace the niobium under pressure, and see if the level of radioactivity in the lab increases.

how can a scientist assess whether a pure niobium (nb) sample is responsible for contaminating the lab with radioactivity?\ntest the niobium sample to see whether it now contains other elements.\ntest the niobium sample for the presence of niobium oxide compounds.\nheat the niobium, and see if the level of radioactivity in the lab increases.\nplace the niobium under pressure, and see if the level of radioactivity in the lab increases.

Answer

Brief Explanations:

Radioactivity is related to the nuclear properties of a substance. Heating a radioactive sample can cause it to release more radioactive particles if it is the source of contamination. Testing for other elements or niobium - oxide compounds doesn't directly address radioactivity. Applying pressure also doesn't directly relate to determining if the niobium is the source of radioactivity. Heating it and checking for an increase in lab radioactivity can help assess if the niobium sample is the source.

Answer:

Heat the niobium, and see if the level of radioactivity in the lab increases.