Tritium Beta Decay

3H → 3He + e + ν̄e

Visão geral

Tritium (hydrogen-3) undergoes beta decay to helium-3 with a half-life of 12.3 years, emitting a very low energy electron (max 18.6 keV). The low beta energy means tritium radiation cannot penetrate skin and is only hazardous if ingested or inhaled. Tritium is produced in nuclear reactors and by cosmic rays.

Participantes

Papel Substância Coeficiente Estado
Reagente Hydrogen H 1 (g)
Produto Helium He 1 (g)

Exemplo do cotidiano

Self-luminous exit signs and watch dials use tritium gas sealed in phosphor-coated glass tubes that glow without batteries for over 10 years.

Importância industrial

O trítio é utilizado em dispositivos autoluminescentes, como traçador em hidrologia, em armas nucleares e como combustível para reatores de fusão D-T.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Tritium Beta Decay?
The balanced equation is: ³H → ³He + e⁻ + ν̄ₑ.
What type of reaction is Tritium Beta Decay?
Tritium Beta Decay is a nuclear reaction.
Is Tritium Beta Decay exothermic or endothermic?
Tritium Beta Decay is exothermic (releases energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is -1800000.0 kJ/mol.