Radiation Safety Practice Exam

What is a significant hazard when tritium gas is exposed to fire?

1. It produces toxic fumes

2. It oxidizes into water-like molecules

3. It creates radioactive smoke

4. It explodes violently

The correct answer is: It oxidizes into water-like molecules

When tritium gas is exposed to fire, it can indeed interact with oxygen in the environment, leading to a significant hazard. This process allows tritium to oxidize, resulting in the formation of water-like molecules, specifically tritiated water (HTO). This compound is a concern because it can be absorbed by biological systems in a way that poses a radioactive hazard. Tritiated water behaves similarly to regular water in the body, allowing for the potential for internal exposure to radiation, which is a critical issue in radiation safety. Understanding the behavior of tritium in fire scenarios emphasizes the importance of proper safety measures and awareness when dealing with this substance in any working environment. The other options suggest consequences that do not accurately reflect the behavior of tritium gas in a fire situation. For instance, tritium is not known to produce toxic fumes or create radioactive smoke in a way that would be typically recognized as a hazard. Additionally, while flammable gases can lead to explosions, tritium gas by itself does not create a violent explosive reaction under fire conditions. Therefore, the correct understanding lies in recognizing the formation of tritiated water and its implications for radiation exposure.