Röntgen discovers X-rays at Würzburg

Background. Röntgen, a German experimental physicist, held the physics chair at the University of Würzburg starting in 1888. In 1895, he was investigating the external effects of electric discharges through various vacuum tubes, including those from Crookes and Lenard. His work focused on understanding the properties of these apparatuses.

Discovery. On the late afternoon of 8 November 1895, Röntgen tested his ideas in his laboratory at the Physical Institute. He discovered X-rays while experimenting with Lenard and Crookes tubes. He named the phenomenon X-radiation to signify an unknown type of radiation, marking a significant scientific breakthrough.

Reception. Röntgen submitted his initial report to the Physical-Medical Society journal on 28 December 1895. The discovery was reported in an Austrian newspaper on 5 January 1896. He received the Rumford Medal in 1896, jointly with Philipp Lenard, for his contributions to the understanding of radiation.

Correspondence. Following his submission to the Physical-Medical Society, Röntgen sent a letter to physicians he knew around Europe on 1 January 1896. This action facilitated the immediate dissemination of his findings among the medical community, preceding the first clinical uses of X-rays.