4.2.9 Studies into the Effects of Radiation

Marie Curie's Research and Findings

1. Discovery of Radioactivity

Study Overview:

• Event: In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Marie Curie, along with her husband Pierre Curie, conducted experiments on radioactive materials.

• Focus: They studied the properties of radioactive substances, including uranium and thorium, and discovered the phenomenon of radioactivity. Findings:

• Concept of Radioactivity: Marie Curie coined the term "radioactivity" to describe the emission of radiation by certain elements. This was a groundbreaking concept that described how unstable atomic nuclei release energy.

• Elements Discovered: She discovered two new elements, polonium and radium, both of which were highly radioactive.

2. Health Effects of Radiation

Study Overview:

• Event: During her research, Marie Curie was exposed to high levels of radiation due to her work with radioactive materials.

• Focus: Her studies inadvertently provided early insights into the health effects of radiation exposure. Findings:

• Health Impacts: Marie Curie and her colleagues experienced health issues linked to radiation exposure, including skin damage and an increased risk of cancer. Marie Curie herself died from aplastic anemia, a condition linked to radiation exposure.

• Awareness: Her experiences led to increased awareness of the potential hazards of radiation, although at the time, the long-term effects were not well understood.

3. Development of Radiotherapy

Study Overview:

• Event: In the early 20th century, Marie Curie's work on radium contributed to the development of radiotherapy for cancer treatment.

• Focus: Investigated the use of radioactive substances to target and destroy cancerous cells. Findings:

• Medical Applications: Curie's research demonstrated that radiation could be used to treat tumours, leading to the development of radiotherapy techniques. Her work laid the foundation for modern cancer treatments using targeted radiation.

4. Impact on Safety Practices

Study Overview:

• Event: Marie Curie's research highlighted the need for better safety practices when working with radioactive materials.

• Focus: The increased understanding of radiation's effects led to improved safety protocols and regulations. Findings:

• Safety Measures: In response to the dangers revealed by Curie's work, guidelines for handling radioactive materials were developed, including the use of protective clothing and equipment to minimise exposure.