(Photo: xinhua/cntv)

Two Chinese scientists, physical chemist Zhang Cunhao and nuclear weapon expert Cheng Kaijia, won China's top science award on Friday for their outstanding contribution to scientific and technological innovation.

The pair, both academicians of the Chinese Academy of Sciences were presented with certificates by Chinese President Xi Jinping at a high-profile annual ceremony held to honor distinguished scientists and research achievements.

They were each awarded five million yuan (826,276 U.S. dollars).

Delegates attend an annual ceremony to honor distinguished scientists and research achievements in Beijing, capital of China, Jan. 10, 2014. (Xinhua/Wang Ye)