Les Rayons X, et la Photographie a travers les Corps Opaques

Abstract

THIS is the fullest and most scientific account we have seen of work with X-rays, and the investigations which led up to Röntgen's discovery. The first part of the book contains a general account of the kinetic theory of gases and the nature of light, together with a few particulars with reference to electric discharges in gases. These facts, and the statement of the theories upon which they depend, prepare the way for a concise description of researches on the luminous phenomena exhibited by electric discharges in rarefied gases, from the times of Faraday and Hittorf until now, especial attention being given to the bearings of these investigations upon the nature of kathode rays. Röntgen's discovery, and many of the researches to which it has given rise, together with an account of its applications, make up the remainder of the volume. Most of the results described have appeared in the Comptes rendus of the Paris Academy of Science, or in NATURE, and Dr. Guillaume has now brought them together in a handy form. Having regard to the large amount of work still in progress, the volume can hardly be considered as permanent in its present shape; but when the proper time arrives, it may be expanded, and will then make a handbook well worth a place in scientific libraries.