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Today in Chemistry History: Henri Becquerel and the discovery of radioactivity

Andy Brunning
Today in Chemistry History infographic on Henri Becquerel and the discovery of radioactivity. In late February 1896, Henri Becquerel was experimenting with phosphorescent uranium salt crystals which glow for a time after exposure to sunlight. He placed the crystals on photographic paper, and saw that a black shadow was visible where the crystals were when the paper was developed. He initially thought the crystals were emitting X-rays when exposed to sunlight. However, on leaving the crystals on the paper in a dark cupboard during overcast days, he found shadows were still visible on the developed paper, and that the process was independent of sunlight. Marie Curie coined the term “radiation” in 1898.
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On 1 March in 1896, French physicist Henri Becquerel discovered radioactivity. This graphic summarises his discovery.

For more Today in Chemistry History graphics, check out the dedicated page.

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