The Art and Science of Light: An Illustrated Retrospective.

More than 100 years have passed since Wilhelm Roentgen’s discovery of x-rays, a form of electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths shorter than visible light. Roentgen’s work was the continuation of other scientists’ study of the properties of light waves. Subsequent research into particle theory by Albert Einstein and others led to the physics principles that not only laid the groundwork for state-of-the-art medical imaging but also changed the understanding of our universe, from atoms to black holes. Because light is the visual medium of radiologic science, technologists must develop an artistic eye. This retrospective pays homage to those who advanced the scientific theory of light and contributed to the foundation of modern medical imaging: ■ Wilhelm Roentgen – x-rays (1895). ■ Albert Einstein – photoelectric effect (1905). ■ Niels Bohr – quantum theory and the atom (1922). ■ Werner Heisenberg – uncertainty principle (1932). ■ Christian Doppler – Doppler effect (1842). ■ Rembrandt van Rijn and Johannes Vermeer – old masters in painting light (1600s).