MasteryExams
General Science • ChemistryMedium

Which of the following isotopes of hydrogen is radioactive and emits beta particles?

A. Protium
B. Deuterium
C. Tritium✓ Correct Answer
D. Parahydrogen

💡 Solution & Explanation

Tritium is a radioactive isotope of hydrogen with a nucleus consisting of one proton and two neutrons, decaying via beta-minus emission into helium-3 with a half-life of about 12.3 years. Protium and deuterium are stable isotopes, with protium being the most abundant isotope on Earth and deuterium containing one neutron. Parahydrogen is a molecular allotrope of hydrogen gas based on nuclear spin configuration rather than an isotopic variation. Tritium finds important applications in self-powered luminous lighting and thermonuclear fusion research.

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