Marie Curie (1867-1934) was one of the most important woman scientists in history, and she was one of the most influential scientists--man or woman--of the 20th century. Curie postulated that radiation was an atomic property, a discovery that has led to significant scientific developments since. She was also the first person to use the term "radioactivity." Her perseverance led to the discovery of two new elements, polonium and radium. This combination of creativity and perseverance netted her two Nobel Prizes, one in physics and the second in chemistry. This book, however, looks at more than her scientific achievements. While Curie is often portrayed as a stern, one-dimensional woman so totally committed to her science that she was incapable of complex emotions, the truth is that the opposite is the case. Marie Curie: A Biography covers her entire lifetime, beginning with her early life and education in a Poland under the oppressive rule of the czar of Russia. The book discusses all aspects--both personal and scientific--of her fascinating life:

• Her education at the Sorbonne in Paris, where she earned the equivalent of two master's degrees--one in physics and a second in mathematics
• Her marriage to Pierre Curie, with whom she collaborated on much of her scientific work
• The personal scandal that surrounded Marie in the aftermath of Pierre's tragic death
• The Nobel Prize awards, and the detractors who believed that her work was actually performed by her husband
• Curie's work in establishing mobile X-ray units during World War I, and the establishment of radium institutes to study radiation

This encyclopedia examines Marie Curie's life and contributions. The chronology provides a thumbnail sketch of events in Curie's life, including her personal experiences, education, and publications. The Introduction provides a brief look at her life. The body of this work consists of alphabetical entries of people, ideas, institutions, places, and publications important in making of Curie as an important scientist. The final section of the book is a bibliography of both primary and selected secondary sources.

'a very comprehensive biographical resource that is highly recommended for academic and public libraries' - Library Journal September 1, 2000

'...a most comprehensive, authoritative, and invaluable first reference source for the general public, students, and scholars...belongs in every academic, high school, and public library...an inspiration to scientists...' - George B. Kauffman, The Chemical Educator Volume 8, No. 1, 2003

'This new title is more wide-ranging than others in the field ...a highly recommended addition to the reference shelf of academic, public, and high-school libraries' Reference Books Bulletin, December 1 2000