Definition

A very small unit used to measure radioactivity, which is one millionth of a curie.

Example

The sample contained a radioactivity level of 5 microcuries.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a microcurie?

Yeah, it’s a unit of radioactivity, right?

Exactly! It's equal to one millionth of a curie.

That's cool, I didn't know it was so small!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Microcurie → It is formed from "micro-" (from Greek "mikros", meaning small) and "curie" (named after Marie Curie, a pioneer in radioactivity). The term "microcurie" refers to a small unit of radioactivity, specifically one-millionth of a curie.

Memory Tip

Think of 'micro-' meaning small, and 'curie' as a unit named after a scientist. This helps you remember that a microcurie is a small measure of radioactivity.

Visually Confused Words