X-Rays

How do x-rays work?

X-rays work by passing radiation through the body to produce images of bones, organs and tissue.

Who invented the X-ray machine?

The X-ray machine was invented by a German physicist named Wilhelm Roentgen.

When was the X-ray machine invented?

The X-ray machine was invented in 1895. The X-ray machine was very quickly put to use and was being used in London hospitals by 1896.

How could X-rays assist in medical treatment?

X-ray machines helped doctors in 4 key ways:

• ❖ They could show broken bones so they could be set properly.
• ❖ They could show where bullets or other foreign objects were lodged in the body.
• ❖ They could be used to identify the shadow on a lung that indicated tuberculosis.
• ❖ They could be used to show internal organs if the patient swallowed something that showed up on the X-ray.