40 greatest inventions of all time revealed - including contactless payments

Electric power, the internet, and penicillin have been hailed as the greatest inventions of all time. A survey of 2,000 adults revealed that electric power generation, often attributed to Thomas Edison, was voted number one. The internet, conceived by Sir Tim Berners-Lee in 1990, secured the second spot, while penicillin, discovered by Sir Alexander Fleming in 1928, took third place.

Modern innovations like smartphones, GPS, and 3D printers also featured in the top 40 list. Half of the respondents believe the best aspect of these modern gadgets is their ability to simplify life, while 34 per cent value how certain technologies help them stay connected with family and friends.

The study showed that 56 per cent of people would find it difficult to go more than a day without technology, with an average daily screen time of six and a half hours, and 12 per cent clocking in at 12 hours or more.

Research sponsored by Vuse Ultra found that the average adult shells out £1,013 annually on new tech, with those between 25 to 34 years old splurging the most at £2,121.

A spokesperson commented: "It's clear Brits are embracing technology that makes their lives better in one way or another – with all of these small improvements adding up to a big difference in their day-to-day life."

Modes of transport such as aeroplanes, cars, steam engines, and bicycles were also among the top 40 inventions listed.

Vaccinations and the defibrillator joined penicillin in representing the medical world, with energy sources such as batteries and solar panels also being popular.

The study also revealed that one fifth believe they have the potential to create a 'good' invention. Potential inventions include devices with 24/7 battery life, a smart shoe for step tracking, and a mobile fridge.

The research, conducted by OnePoll for Vuse Ultra, also identified the technology we expect to see by 2050, with robots or androids as household helpers topping the list (30 per cent).

Other predictions include universal translators for seamless communication (22 per cent), virtual reality holidays and experiences (17 per cent), and self-cleaning homes (15 per cent).