Pronunciation: [hˈɪtɔːf ɹˈe͡ɪz] (IPA) 
Hittorf rays are a type of cathode ray discovered by German physicist Johann Hittorf. The spelling of Hittorf is pronounced with a long "i" sound (/hiːtɔrf/), while the pronunciation of rays is straightforward (/reɪz/). The combined spelling is therefore pronounced /hiːtɔrf reɪz/. Hittorf rays were a groundbreaking discovery in the field of cathode ray research and ultimately led to the discovery of the electron.
Hittorf rays refer to the phenomenon of cathode rays that were observed and studied by the German physicist Johann Wilhelm Hittorf in the late 19th century. Cathode rays are streams of electrons emitted from the negative electrode (cathode) towards the positive electrode (anode) in a vacuum tube.
Hittorf rays are characterized by the unique properties they exhibit during their movement in a vacuum. They travel in straight lines, create a glowing effect upon striking phosphorescent materials, and cast sharp shadows. These rays have lower energy levels compared to X-rays and are therefore less penetrating.
Hittorf rays are commonly produced using discharge tubes containing a gas at low pressure. When a high voltage is applied between the electrodes, the cathode emits the rays, which can then be observed and studied. Hittorf rays became significant in the development of atomic physics, as they provided early insights into the nature of electrons and their behavior.
The study of Hittorf rays led to important discoveries such as the determination of the charge-to-mass ratio of the electron and the development of the Crookes tube, a precursor to the modern television picture tube. These rays played a crucial role in advancing our understanding of electricity, magnetism, and the structure of atoms, contributing to the foundation of modern particle physics.
The term "Hittorf rays" is named after its discoverer, Johann Wilhelm Hittorf, a German physicist. In the late 19th century, Hittorf conducted several experiments on the properties of electrical discharges in partially evacuated tubes. He observed a phenomenon in which cathode rays emitted from the negative electrode (cathode) of a discharge tube traveled in straight lines, casting a shadow on the opposite end of the tube. These rays came to be known as "Hittorf rays" in honor of Hittorf's pioneering work in the field of gas-discharge physics.
