What is the definition of a Curie?

The Curie is defined as a unit of radioactive decay, specifically used to quantify the amount of radioactive material. It was named in honor of Pierre and Marie Curie, who were pivotal in the study of radioactivity. One Curie is equivalent to 3.7 x 10^10 disintegrations per second, reflecting the rate at which a sample of radioactive material emits radiation.

Understanding this definition is crucial in the field of radiation protection because it helps in assessing the intensity of radioactivity from different sources. This measurement can inform safety protocols and guidelines to minimize exposure to harmful radiation. Other options like measures of radiation exposure, energy, or dose pertain to different aspects of radiation and do not accurately capture the specific function of the Curie in terms of radioactive decay rates.