Who Invented the Cathode Ray Tube?

The cathode ray tube is an integral part of many television screens and computer monitors. The tube helps to produce the pictures and images that show up on the screen.

History

German physicist Ferdinand Braun invented the cathode ray tube in 1897.

Function

The cathode ray tube emits a beam of electrons that are heated and accelerated. The picture that is created comes from when a small part of the screen glows when the electron hits it.

Uses

Cathode ray tubes are being replaced by liquid crystal displays because LCD screens produce a higher-quality picture.

Drawbacks

In televisions, the screen must be made of glass in order for the cathode ray tube to work, thus making the television heavy if the size of the screen is large.

Fun Fact

Cathode ray tubes emit slight amounts of X-ray radiation.