Munitions Firefighting Practice Exam

When exposed to heat or flame, which radioactive material presents a severe fire hazard?

1. Uranium

2. Tritium

3. Radon

4. Plutonium

The correct answer is: Tritium

Tritium is a radioactive isotope of hydrogen that emits low-energy beta radiation and is commonly used in self-luminous applications, like exit signs and watch dials. When considering the fire hazard associated with radioactive materials, it's crucial to recognize the context in which these materials interact with heat or flame. Tritium, while not highly flammable in itself, can pose a risk if it is part of a compound or material that can ignite, leading to potential release of harmful radiation. The other options do not present the same level of fire hazard when actively exposed to heat or flame. For instance, uranium and plutonium are primarily of concern due to their potential for criticality (sustained nuclear fission) in specific configurations, rather than being flammable. Radon, being a noble gas, does not support combustion and therefore is less likely to present a fire hazard. The focus on trepidation with radioactive materials in fire scenarios often stems from the combination of radiation hazards and the potential for chemical reactions in certain compounds, making it essential to consider tritium's specific characteristics in this context.