Crookes cathode ray tube, 1880s C016 / 3666

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Crookes cathode ray tube, 1880s C016 / 3666

Crookes tube. A Crookes tube, used to create cathode rays, made in the 1880s. This is a tube containing a near vacuum. A high voltage is applied across the two electrodes. Electrons naturally present are accelerated toward the anode (bottom), as they collide with gas molecules they produce positive ions that accelerate toward the cathode (top). When these strike the cathode they knock more electrons from the surface that fly off toward the anode. These are cathode rays. In this tube, a small sample of metal has been placed in the middle to study the effect of cathode rays upon it. This object is preserved at the Royal Institution, London

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Media ID 9203961

© ROYAL INSTITUTION OF GREAT BRITAIN / SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

1880s 19th Anode Artefact Cathode Century Current Effect Electric Electrical Electricity Electron Emission Exhibit Exhibition Flow Glass Glassware Institution Item London Museum Nineteenth Object Royal Tube Vacuum Crookes Cutouts

EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a remarkable piece of scientific history - the Crookes cathode ray tube from the 1880s. The tube, displayed against a pristine white background, is an essential tool used to generate and study cathode rays. Operating within a near vacuum environment, this glass apparatus demonstrates the fascinating interplay between electricity and gas molecules. The concept behind this ingenious invention involves applying high voltage across two electrodes. As electrons naturally present in the tube are accelerated towards the anode at the bottom, collisions with gas molecules produce positive ions that then move towards the cathode positioned on top. Upon striking the cathode surface, these ions dislodge more electrons which fly off towards the anode - creating what we know as cathode rays. Intriguingly, this particular Crookes tube also features a small metal sample placed in its center for further examination of how these cathode rays affect different materials. Preserved at London's esteemed Royal Institution, this artifact serves as a testament to humanity's relentless pursuit of knowledge throughout history. With its historical significance and scientific relevance, this photograph offers viewers a glimpse into our electrifying past while highlighting one of many invaluable treasures housed within museums worldwide.

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