The Curie Family

Marie and Pierre Curie, their daughter Irene Joliot-Curie, and her husband Frederic Joliot-Curie were one of science’s most remarkable and influential families. Their painstaking research into the mysteries of radioactivity allowed scientists to reach a new understanding about the structure of atoms and opened a new field of medical treatment. The Curie Family: Exploring Radioactivity illustrates how the Curies’ startling discoveries were major factors in the development of nuclear physics. This new branch of science would have profound implications for our understanding of matter and energy, in addition to giving rise to hopes for abundant power and fears of ultimate destruction. In addition, Madame Curie’s lasting legacy can be found in today’s growing number of highly talented women scientists.