Pierre and Marie Curie, Discover the Radioactivity

By ZIA UR REHMAN 2010EE1085

Radio-activity
Radioactivity is the process whereby unstable atomic nuclei release energetic subatomic particles.

The SI unit of radioactivity is the Becquerel

Significant Work of Becquerel

Accidental discovery of spontaneous radioactivity in 1896 Led to more work on radioactivity of other scientists (Curies)
Rumford Medal (1900) Helmholtz Medal (1901) Nobel Prize (1903) Barnard Medal (1905)

Story of the Curies

1. Studied uranium ore- isolate radioactive substances from ore atoms produced radioactivity. 2. Pierre investigated properties of radium; Marie did chemical experiments. 3. Together discovered polonium and radium more radioactive then uranium or thorium.

Applications:
Curies extensive work led radioactivity to have many uses in science 1. Curietherapie- treat cancer & lupus 2. Nuclear reactors. 3. tracers in medical research.

Thank you.