  Using a novel technique of measuring direct rf power dissipation, the
temperature and magnetic field dependence of rf absorption in superconducting
single crystals of Bi_2Sr_2CaCu_2O_8 is studied. An unexpected, larger than
normal state, dissipation is observed below Tc, which exhibits peaks at
magnetic field dependent temperatures. An explanation is provided for this
observation in terms of the energy required to decouple the intrinsic Josephson
junctions in the crystals.
