Short Stories
of Science and Invention

A Collection of Radio Talks by
Charles F. Kettering

     Since those comparatively early days - although they are less than 50 years ago - the picture has changed. Dr. Coolidge and many others have improved the X-ray tubes to the point where we can see flaws hidden deep in a block of steel up to a foot thick. The X-ray is as necessary to a modern diagnosis as an anesthetic is to surgery. In fact, in just one clinic 15,000 routine examinations were made last year. The X-ray is an all important section of metallurgy and is used in factories to inspect castings as well as in hospitals to help save lives.

     We often hear some people say there are no new frontiers - our knowledge is complete. But just as Columbus opened up a new physical world when he discovered America, Röntgen opened the door to a new world of scientific development when he uncovered the X-ray. How many of these new worlds, these new frontiers of science, are as yet undiscovered we do not know. Only time and our patient search can answer that.     ●