H-3

Tritium is a rare and radioactive isotope of hydrogen, also known as hydrogen-3, with a half-life of approximately 12.3 years. It emits low-energy beta particles during its decay into stable helium-3. While tritium occurs naturally in trace amounts in the Earth's atmosphere due to cosmic ray interactions, most of it is produced artificially in nuclear reactors by irradiating lithium.

Tritium has diverse applications. It is used as an energy source in radioluminescent devices, such as glowing watch dials, firearm night sights, instruments, and self-illuminating keychains. In medical and scientific research, tritium serves as a radioactive tracer. Additionally, it plays a vital role in nuclear fusion, acting as a fuel in combination with deuterium in experimental fusion reactors like tokamaks and hydrogen bombs.

Tritium is typically found in controlled environments such as research laboratories, medical facilities, and nuclear installations. In the environment, it may exist as tritiated water, particularly near nuclear power plants. However, strict monitoring and safety measures ensure minimal public exposure and mitigate associated risks.