X-ray machine tops invention poll

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The X-ray machine has been voted as the scientific invention with most impact on the past, present and future.

A poll by the Science Museum received nearly 50,000 votes but the X-ray machine dominated, receiving over 9,500, beating the likes of Penicillin, the Apollo 10 Capsule and the Steam Engine amongst others.

Katie Maggs, associate curator of Medicine at the Science Museum, said in a statement: "I’m thrilled to see the incredible development of the x-ray machine recognised in the Museum’s Centenary year. X-rays have radically changed the way we see and understand our world – our bodies in particular."

The famous invention used by radiologists across the world on a daily basis was first invented in 1895 by Wilhelm Röntgen and is still referred to as Röntgen radiation in several countries.

Professor Andy Adam, professor of Interventional Radiology at King's College London and President of the Royal College of Radiologists, said in a statement: "I am delighted to hear that the x-ray machine has topped the poll of scientific discoveries. It has certainly revolutionised the practice of medicine."

"The discovery of x-rays brought this discipline into existence and has benefited countless patients."

The top 10 were as follows:

1) X-ray machines

2) Penicillin

3) DNA double helix

4) Apollo 10 Capsule

5) V2 Rocket Engine

6) Stephenson's Rocket

7) Pilot ACE Computer

8) Steam Engine

9) Model T Ford

10) Electric Telegraph

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