Reason is essential to directly solving problems. Yet an active rational mind is also required to recognize the value of serendipitous discoveries.

Hence, it was with great interest that I read this Wired article on the “Top 10 Accidental Discoveries“.

The list consists of the following items, and the article describes in more detail how each came to be discovered:

1. Viagra
2. LSD
3. X-rays
4. Penicillin
5. Artificial sweeteners
6. Microwave ovens
7. Brandy
8. Vulcanized rubber
9. Silly Putty
10. Potato chips