What is radioactivity? How to use in English

Discover the meaning of radioactivity in English, its pronunciation, and how to use it correctly in real-life situations. See examples and easy memorization tips.

Definition & pronunciation of radioactivity

radioactivitynoun
phóng xạ
/ˌreɪdiəʊækˈtɪvəti//ˌreɪdiəʊækˈtɪvəti/

Where does the word radioactivity come from?

The term "radioactivity" was coined by French physicist Henri Becquerel in 1896. In his experiments, Becquerel discovered that certain substances, such as uranium salts, emitted a previously unknown type of energy that could ionize the air around them. He initially referred to this phenomenon as "fluorescence" but soon realized that it was not merely a property of light, but a unique form of radiation. In 1899, Marie Curie, along with her husband Pierre, further studied and isolated the radioactive substances, and the term "radioactivity" became widely accepted. The name "radioactivity" comes from the Latin word "radius," meaning beam or ray, as these new elements were found to emit beams of ionizing radiation. The discovery of radioactivity revolutionized our understanding of the atom and paved the way for major advancements in nuclear physics and medicine.

Vocabulary summary radioactivity

type noun

meaning radioactivity; radioactivity

Example of vocabulary radioactivitynamespace

The oil drilling process has released radioactive materials into the environment, leading to environmental concerns and potential health hazards for nearby residents.
The radioactive isotope used for cancer treatments, such as iodine-131, emits gamma rays and beta particles that can destroy cancerous cells while minimizing damage to healthy ones.
Radioactive contamination from nuclear power plants can contaminate nearby drinking water sources, leading to potential long-term health risks for individuals exposed to the contaminated water.
After a nuclear accident, radiation safety personnel use Geiger counters to measure the level of radioactivity in the surrounding area to ensure that it’s safe for people to return.
The high levels of radioactivity present in some nuclear weapon testing sites, such as those in the Pacific Ocean, has led to concerns about long-term health effects on marine life and humans.