Who Really Discovered Radioactivity? The Role of Marie Curie

Explore the true discovery of radioactivity and Marie Curie's significant contributions to the field.

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No, Marie Curie did not discover radioactivity. That discovery is credited to Henri Becquerel. However, Marie Curie made significant contributions by discovering the elements polonium and radium and by coining the term 'radioactivity'. Her work in this field earned her two Nobel Prizes in Physics and Chemistry, solidifying her legacy as a pioneer in the study of radioactive elements.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What did Marie Curie discover? Marie Curie discovered the elements polonium and radium and coined the term 'radioactivity'.
  2. Who was Henri Becquerel? Henri Becquerel was the scientist who first discovered radioactivity.
  3. What awards did Marie Curie win? Marie Curie won two Nobel Prizes, one in Physics and another in Chemistry.
  4. What is radioactivity? Radioactivity is the process by which unstable atomic nuclei lose energy by emitting radiation.