Earlier this week, November 8th celebrates the accidental discovery of X-rays in 1895 by physicist Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen of Germany. Using a cathode-ray tube, Röntgen noticed a fluorescent glow of crystals near the tube containing a bulb with positive and negative electrodes. Evacuating air and applying high voltage produced a fluorescent glow and adding black paper to shield the tube created a green light, emitting a ray that could pass through paper, cast shadows on solid objects and human tissue, but not metal and bone.
The invention of the X-ray is one of the most prolific breakthroughs to humanity. Help spread awareness of the many benefits of medical imaging and help us spread gratitude to all the radiographers and radiologists working to help improve lives.