How many disintegrations per second is defined as 1 Curie?

The definition of 1 Curie is based on the rate of radioactive decay, specifically denoting a quantity of radioactive material that undergoes 3.7 x 10^10 disintegrations per second. This value was established in honor of Marie Curie, a pioneer in the study of radioactivity.

Understanding this definition is crucial for those working in fields involving nuclear science, as it provides a standard measure for the intensity of radioactive sources. The Curie unit highlights how many nuclear decay processes are happening in a sample, making it essential for calculating dosages, safety protocols, and the management of radioactive materials.

Other options indicate different quantities of disintegrations per second but do not reflect the standardized definition of a Curie. For example, 1 billion and 1 million are significantly lower, while 37,000 is not even close to the recommended value for 1 Curie. Recognizing 3.7 x 10^10 as the proper amount ensures you're equipped with the correct metric vital for performance accuracy and safety in nuclear applications.