Crookes Tube Collection

William Crookes and vacuum tube, 1903
William Crookes with his vacuum tube, in a caricature published in the British weekly magazine Vanity Fair in 1903. The caption was: Ubi Crookes ibi lux (Where Crookes is, there is light)

PSCI2A-00014
Professor J. J. Thomson in his laboratory. Hand-colored halftone of a 20th-century illustration

19th Century Crookes Tube. Invented by William Crookes (1832-1919) in the late 19th century this apparatus was used to investigate the path taken by electrons, or cathode rays as they were known

19th Century Crookes Tubes. Invented by William Crookes (1832-1919) in the late 19th century this apparatus was used to investigate the path taken by electrons, or cathode rays as they were known

Radiant matter physics, 19th century
" Radiant matter" physics. 19th-century artwork of physicists carrying out experiments on what they called radiant matter

Early radiography experiment. Historical artwork of a Ruhmkorff induction coil (left) being used to create a large electrical voltage across a Crookes tube (glass tube, upper right)

Art of Roentgens X-ray apparatus for imaging hand
Roentgens X-ray machine. Drawing of the X-ray machine used by German physicist Wilhelm Roentgen to produce images of the hand

Crookes tube. Invented by William Crookes (1832 - 1919) in the late 19th century, this apparatus was used to investigate the path taken by cathode rays

Cathode ray tube. Image 2 of 2. Demonstration showing how a beam of electrons can be deflected by a magnetic field, as seen in television cathode ray tube (CRT) displays

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The Crookes tube, a remarkable invention of the 19th century, revolutionized our understanding of electrical luminosity. Developed by Sir William Crookes, a British chemist and physicist, this vacuum tube became the cornerstone of radiant matter physics. In this captivating black and white photo from 1903, we see Sir William Crookes standing proudly next to his groundbreaking creation. The PSCI2A-00014 image captures the essence of scientific exploration during that era. The mesmerizing glow emitted by the 19th-century Crookes tubes was nothing short of extraordinary. These tubes were instrumental in early radiography experiments, paving the way for advancements in medical imaging techniques. One such experiment involved Roentgen's X-ray apparatus skillfully capturing an image of a hand. As we delve into the world of these enchanting devices, it becomes evident how they bridged science and art. The intricate design and craftsmanship behind each Crookes tube showcase both technical ingenuity and aesthetic beauty. Through their research with these tubes, scientists like Sir William Crookes unraveled mysteries surrounding radiant matter physics. Their discoveries laid the foundation for future breakthroughs in electricity and light phenomena. Today, as we marvel at modern technology's achievements, let us not forget those who paved the way before us. The humble yet profound invention known as the Crookes tube continues to inspire generations with its contribution to our understanding of electrical luminosity - forever etching its name in history books as a symbol of scientific progress.