Read and Speak. Круглова М.В. - 86 стр.

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investigations made by Mme Curie proved that this was so. The discovery was

followed by further experiments with «active» radioelements only.

Step four consists in stating an hypothesis or theory: that is, framing a general

truth that has emerged, and that may be modified as new facts emerge. In July 1898,

the Curies announced the probable presence in pitchblende ores of a new element

possessing powerful radioactivity. This was the beginning of the discovery of radium.

Then follows the clearer statement of the theory. In December 1898, the Curies

reported to the Academy of Sciences: «The various reasons enumerated lead us to

believe that the new radioactive substance contains a new element to which we

propose to give the name of Radium. The new radioactive substance certainly

contains a great amount of barium, and still its radioactivity is considerable. It can be

suggested therefore that the radioactivity of radium must be enormous».

And the final step is the practical test of the theory, i.e. the prediction of new facts.

This is essential, because from this flows the possibility of control by man of the

forces of nature that are newly revealed.

Note should be taken of how Marie Curie used deductive reasoning in order to

proceed with her research, this kind of «detective work» being basic to the

methodology of science. It should be stressed further that she dealt with probability -

and not with certainty - in her investigation. Also, although the Curies were doing the

basic research work at great expense to themselves in hard physical toil, they knew

that they were part of an international group of people all concerned with their search

for truth. Their reports were published and immediately examined by scientists all

over the world. Any defects in their arguments would be pointed out to them

immediately.

EXERCISES:

I. Fill in the blanks in the sentences using the appropriate

words and word combinations from the following list.

at great expense; to meet human needs; to point out; to encounter difficulties; to

refer to; to emerge; to distinguish; search for truth.