Saturday, 3 May 2025Let’s start our morning sharing with a question. Do you know who’s the first person that received two Nobel Prizes? Here’s a hint: this person was awarded Nobel Prizes in two different scientific fields.
Any idea? The answer is: Marie Curie. She was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1903, along with her husband Pierre Curie and Henri Becquerel, for their research on radioactivity. Later, in 1911, she received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for her discovery of the elements polonium and radium.
Let’s learn more about the life and great contributions of this outstanding lady. Marie Curie, born in 1867, was a Polish physicist and chemist who made ground breaking discoveries in the field of radioactivity. Her story is not only a tale of scientific brilliance but also one of immense diligence and perseverance.
Marie Curie faced different obstacles throughout her life. As a woman in a male-dominated field, she encountered prejudice and discrimination. Despite these challenges, she put consistent effort in her pursuit of knowledge and excellence. In the late 19th century, Marie Curie moved to Paris to further her studies. She faced financial hardships, but her passion for science remained unwavering.
Marie’s breakthrough came when she began researching uranium rays and observed various radiation phenomena. Marie Curie, together with her husband, Pierre Curie conducted joint research on radioactivity, that originally discovered by Professor Henri Becquerel. Their work earned them the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1903.
Unluckily, 3 years later her husband died in a road accident while crossing a busy road in the rain. Despite the immense grief and personal loss, Marie Curie did not let it stop her from her scientific pursuits. She took over her husband’s teaching position at the university and continued her research.
Marie Curie’s diligence and dedication paid off once again. In 1911, she received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for her discovery of radium and polonium. She definitely was one of the greatest scientists of her time.
Marie Curie’s contributions to science not only included her groundbreaking discoveries but also her continuous efforts to develop the use of radioactivity in medicine. During World War I, she established mobile radiography units to provide X-rays for diagnosing and treating wounded soldiers.
Her commitment to work and dedication to the advancement of science had great influence on our world. Marie Curie’s story reminds us that diligence, perseverance, and a passion for knowledge can break down barriers and lead to remarkable achievements.
Now, let’s ask God to continue to guide us to work hard, embrace challenges, overcome obstacles, and pursue our passions with unwavering determination.
Ms Wong SM
23 February 2024