Question

Which of the following statements about tritium is falsc? (1) Tritium emits \gamma-rays. (2) Tritium is obtained by nuclcar reaction. (3) The disintegration product of tritium is \({ }_{2}^{3}\) IIc. (4) Its physical properties are different from thosc of dcuterium.

Short answer

Statement (1) is false.

Step-by-step solution

- Understanding Tritium Emissions

Tritium (\text{\({ }_{1}^{3}\text{H}\)}) is a radioactive isotope of hydrogen. It is known to emit beta particles (\beta-particles) during its radioactive decay, not gamma-rays (\text{\textgamma-rays}). Hence, statement (1) is false.

- Source of Tritium

Tritium is commonly obtained through nuclear reactions, such as the irradiation of lithium in reactors. Therefore, statement (2) is true.

- Disintegration Product

The disintegration of tritium results in helium-3 (\text{\({ }_{2}^{3}\text{He}\)}). Thus, statement (3) is true.

- Physical Properties

Tritium's physical properties, such as its mass and radioactive behavior, differ from those of deuterium (\text{\({ }_{1}^{2}\text{H}\)}). So, statement (4) is true.

Key concepts

radioactive decay

Radioactive decay is a process where unstable atomic nuclei lose energy by emitting radiation. Tritium (\text{\text{\({}_1^3\text{H}\)}}) is a radioactive isotope of hydrogen. When it decays, it emits beta particles, which are high-energy, high-speed electrons or positrons. Over time, this process transforms tritium into a more stable form, such as helium-3 (\text{\text{\({}_2^3\text{He}\)}}). This happens because the nucleus of tritium gradually changes into the nucleus of helium-3, shedding particles and energy in the process. Remember, tritium does not emit gamma-rays; it emits beta particles instead.

nuclear reactions

Nuclear reactions are processes where the structure of an atomic nucleus is changed, releasing a significant amount of energy. Tritium can be produced through such nuclear reactions. One common method involves irradiating lithium-6 (\text{\text{\({}_3^6\text{Li}\)}}) in nuclear reactors. This interaction releases neutrons, leading to the formation of tritium. These reactions are tightly controlled and monitored to ensure safety and efficiency. Tritium from nuclear reactions is then often used in scientific research or industries such as nuclear fusion energy.

beta particles

Beta particles are a type of radiation consisting of high-energy, high-speed electrons or positrons. They are emitted during the radioactive decay of unstable isotopes like tritium (\text{\text{\({}_1^3\text{H}\)}}). Unlike alpha particles, beta particles are more penetrating but can still be stopped by materials like plastic or glass. The emission of beta particles from tritium is crucial in its transformation into helium-3 (\text{\text{\({}_2^3\text{He}\)}}). While beta particles can be hazardous to living tissues, proper shielding and handling reduce the risks.

helium-3

Helium-3 (\text{\text{\({}_2^3\text{He}\)}}) is a stable isotope of helium, produced as a result of tritium (\text{\text{\({}_1^3\text{H}\)}}) decay. It has two protons and one neutron in its nucleus. Helium-3 is rare on Earth but has potential applications in nuclear fusion and cryogenics. Unlike its isotope, helium-4, helium-3 does not form a solid at absolute zero, making it valuable for studies of quantum mechanics and low-temperature physics. Helium-3's stability and unique properties make it a significant subject of scientific research.