The Elements of Marie Curie with Dava Sobel

How did Marie Skłodowska-Curie’s discoveries in radioactivity change our understanding of the natural world? Neil deGrasse Tyson and comedian Chuck Nice sit down with science writer Dava Sobel, author of a new book on Skłodowska-Curie, to explore the enduring impact of her work on radioactivity. Discover how Skłodowska-Curie’s meticulous research led to the isolation of radium and polonium—elements that unlocked the mysteries of radioactivity and laid the foundation for modern physics and chemistry. Learn how her insights paved the way for radioactive dating, which determined the Earth’s age, and her revolutionary contributions to medical science, including the use of radium to treat cancer and the development of mobile X-ray units during World War I. We dive into the science behind her two Nobel Prizes—one in physics and one in chemistry—and her perseverance in refining tiny quantities of radioactive material from tons of ore. We also discuss the risks she and her collaborators faced as the dangers of radiation exposure became clear, as well as the scientific advances inspired by her work, including the creation of artificial radioelements for medical applications. From her early experiments to her lab notes—still radioactive today—Skłodowska-Curie’s story is one of unrelenting curiosity and dedication. Join us for a deep dive into the science that defined her career and the discoveries that continue to shape our understanding of the universe. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction: Dava Sobel 04:58 - How Radium Lit a Path 12:25 - Marie Curie’s Nobel Prizes 14:23 - Studying Radiation 20:57 - Radiation’s Effect on Health 23:34 - When Physics & Chemistry Meet 29:29 - Curie’s Reputation 35:21 - Her Death From Radiation 39:14 - A Cosmic Perspective Check out our second channel, @StarTalkPlus Get the NEW StarTalk book, 'To Infinity and Beyond: A Journey of Cosmic Discovery' on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3PL0NFn Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/startalkradio FOLLOW or SUBSCRIBE to StarTalk: Twitter: http://twitter.com/startalkradio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StarTalk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/startalk About StarTalk: Science meets pop culture on StarTalk! Astrophysicist & Hayden Planetarium director Neil deGrasse Tyson, his comic co-hosts, guest celebrities & scientists discuss astronomy, physics, and everything else about life in the universe. Keep Looking Up! #StarTalk #NeildeGrasseTyson