Which of the following statements about tritium is falsc?...

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.

Key Concepts

Radioactive Decay

This concept involves the process by which unstable nuclei lose energy by emitting radiation. In nuclear physics, understanding decay modes—such as beta decay and gamma emission—is essential, as different isotopes decay via distinct pathways. The specific decay mode of an isotope, like whether it emits beta particles or gamma rays, is a key characteristic that distinguishes its behavior and applications.

Beta Minus Decay

Beta minus decay is a form of radioactive decay in which a neutron in the nucleus is transformed into a proton while emitting an electron (beta particle) and an antineutrino. This decay process is particularly relevant for isotopes like tritium, where the mode of emission (beta particle without significant gamma radiation) is a defining feature.

Nuclear Reaction Production

This key concept covers the method by which certain isotopes, including tritium, are produced through induced nuclear reactions rather than existing abundantly in nature. Nuclear reactors and particle accelerators often rely on specific nuclear reactions involving target isotopes or particles to synthesize desired radioactive materials.

Isotopes and Isotopic Effects

Isotopes are variants of a particular chemical element that differ in neutron number while retaining the same number of protons. Although they share nearly identical chemical properties because the electron configuration is the same, their physical properties, such as mass and nuclear stability, can differ. This nuance is crucial when comparing isotopes like tritium, deuterium, and protium.

Nuclear Transmutation Products

Understanding the products of radioactive decay, or nuclear transmutation, is vital in nuclear chemistry. When an unstable isotope decays, it transforms into a different element or a different isotope of the same element. For example, tritium decays into helium-3, and this process is central to many applications and theoretical studies in nuclear physics.

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