How many disintegrations per second does one curie of radioactive material represent?

One curie is defined as the quantity of radioactive material that undergoes 3.7 x 10^10 disintegrations per second. This definition stems from the historical context where one curie was originally based on the radioactivity of 1 gram of radium-226. Thus, the correct answer directly reflects the established benchmark in radiation measurement, making it an essential concept in understanding radioactivity.

This value of 3.7 x 10^10 disintegrations per second is pivotal for converting between different units of radioactivity and plays a critical role in various applications within nuclear physics, medical imaging, and radiation safety. Familiarity with this relationship allows professionals in these fields to communicate effectively about radioactive materials and their hazards.