What Is Trihydrogen?
Trihydrogen, commonly known as tritium, is a radioactive isotope of hydrogen with the mass number 3. Its nucleus consists of one proton and two neutrons.
While tritium shares many chemical properties with hydrogen, its notable distinction is its radioactivity. It has a half-life of approximately 12.3 years. Due to its low-energy beta radiation, tritium is considered to have low toxicity.
Naturally, tritium is produced by the interaction of cosmic rays with atmospheric gases and is found in trace amounts in atmospheric water vapor, rainwater, and seawater. Additionally, tritium can be artificially produced through nuclear reactions in nuclear reactors or during nuclear weapons tests.
Uses of Trihydrogen
Due to its rarity and high cost of extraction, tritium is used primarily in applications where its unique properties are essential. One significant use is in nuclear fusion research, where tritium serves as a fuel due to its favorable properties for fusion reactions.
Tritium is also utilized in various scientific research contexts, particularly as a tracer in biochemical and environmental studies. As a tracer, it helps scientists track the movement, distribution, and chemical processes of substances in biological systems or the environment.