One of the most significant ways Marie Curie’s work contributed to the awareness of lung cancer was through the growing understanding of how exposure to radioactive gases, such as radon, can lead to the deadly disease.
Women influenced by Marie Curie's work:
EUROPE
Several women have contributed to radon gas research, particularly in the fields of radioactivity, environmental science, and public health. Here are a few notable names:
1. Marie Curie (1867–1934)
While Marie Curie did not specifically research radon gas, she played a
crucial role in discovering radioactivity and isolating radium, from which
radon is a decay product. Her work laid the foundation for the study of radon and its effects.
2. Harriet Brooks (1876–1933)
A Canadian physicist and one of Marie Curie’s students, Brooks was a pioneering researcher in radioactivity. She was one of the first scientists to identify radon (then called "emanation"), recognizing it as a new radioactive gas. Her contributions were critical in understanding radioactive decay.
3. Ellen Gleditsch (1879–1968)
A Norwegian radiochemist who worked with Marie Curie, Gleditsch helped refine measurements of radium’s half-life, indirectly contributing to the study of radon, a decay product of radium.
4. Elizabeth Rona (1890–1981)
A Hungarian radiochemist who made significant advancements in the study of radioactive isotopes, including those related to radon and radium.
5. Sister Mary Theonila
A lesser-known but important figure, she worked in the mid-20th century on radon exposure and radiation studies, especially regarding its impact on health.
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