Marie Curie
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Marie Curie | |
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| Born | 7 November 1867 |
| Died | 4 July 1934 |
| Nationality | Polish-French |
| Occupation | Physicist; chemist |
| Known for | Research on radioactivity |
| Notable work | Discovery of polonium and radium; development of radioactive theory |
Marie Curie (1867–1934) was a Polish-French physicist and chemist whose research on radioactivity had a profound impact on science and medicine. She was the first person to win Nobel Prizes in two different scientific fields and remains one of the most influential figures in the history of modern science.
Curie’s work established new areas of research and contributed to both theoretical understanding and practical applications of radioactive materials.
Early life and education
Marie Curie was born in Warsaw, then part of the Russian Empire. She pursued early education under restrictive conditions and later moved to Paris to study at the Sorbonne, where she trained in physics and mathematics.
She adopted French citizenship while maintaining strong ties to her Polish heritage.
Research on radioactivity
Curie conducted pioneering research on substances that emit radiation without external energy input. She introduced the term “radioactivity” and developed methods to isolate radioactive elements.
Her work led to the discovery of two new elements: polonium and radium.
Scientific contributions
Curie’s research contributed to:
- the understanding of atomic structure
- measurement techniques for radioactive materials
- medical applications of radiation
- industrial uses of radioactive substances
Her methods and findings influenced physics, chemistry, and medicine.
World War I
During World War I, Curie helped develop mobile radiography units to assist medical diagnosis on the battlefield. She trained personnel and promoted the medical use of X-ray technology.
These efforts had lasting effects on diagnostic medicine.
Later life
Curie continued her scientific work while also leading research institutions. Prolonged exposure to radiation affected her health.
She died in 1934.
Legacy
Marie Curie’s legacy includes fundamental scientific discoveries and institutional contributions to research and medicine. Her work helped establish radioactivity as a central area of study in modern science.
She remains a symbol of scientific dedication and interdisciplinary achievement.