Question:

Which of the following forms of hydrogen emits low energy \(\beta^-\) particles?

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Only tritium is radioactive among the hydrogen isotopes (half-life about 12.3 years).
Updated On: Nov 4, 2026
  • Tritium \(_1^3\mathrm{H}\)
  • Proton \(\mathrm{H^+}\)
  • Protium \(_1^1\mathrm{H}\)
  • Deuterium \(_1^2\mathrm{H}\)
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Protium \(_1^1\mathrm{H}\) and deuterium \(_1^2\mathrm{H}\) are stable isotopes, and the proton \(\mathrm{H^+}\) is simply the nucleus of protium, also stable.
Tritium \(_1^3\mathrm{H}\) is radioactive (half-life about 12.33 years) and decays by emitting low energy \(\beta^-\) particles: \(_1^3\mathrm{H} \to {}_2^3\mathrm{He} + \beta^- + \bar{\nu}\).
Answer: (1) Tritium \(_1^3\mathrm{H}\)
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