X ray production - doubts in the principle involved

In summary, the production of x-rays involves the ionization of air molecules and the attraction of positive ions to the cathode, which causes the emission of electrons from the cathode. The underlying principle is that when positive ions collide with the cathode, they transfer energy to the atoms, and if this energy is greater than the ionization energy, electrons are released. This was the case before the invention of the Coolidge tube.
  • #1
logearav
338
0
X ray production -- doubts in the principle involved

Homework Statement



In x ray production, air molecules are ionised due to presence of very high electric field within the tube and positive ions are attracted to the cathode C and due to their impact electrons are emitted from the cathode.
I have a doubt in this. What is the underlying principle in which positive ions on collision with cathode, electrons coming out of cathode.

Homework Equations


The above scenario was before the advent of Coolidge tube.

The Attempt at a Solution

 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2


When positive ions collide with cathode then they collide with atoms transferring energy.When this is greater then ionization energy then electrons are released.
 
  • #3


I don't understand Bhaskar. Could u elaborate more, pls?
 

Related to X ray production - doubts in the principle involved

1. What is the principle behind X ray production?

The principle behind X ray production is based on the phenomenon of electron excitation. When a high energy electron collides with an atom, it can cause the electron in the inner shell to be ejected. This creates a vacancy in the inner shell, which is then filled by an electron from a higher energy level. This transition releases energy in the form of an X-ray photon.

2. How are X rays produced in X ray tubes?

X rays are produced in X ray tubes by accelerating electrons from a cathode to an anode using a high voltage. When the electrons strike the anode, they produce X rays through the process of bremsstrahlung (braking radiation) and characteristic radiation.

3. What is the difference between bremsstrahlung and characteristic radiation in X ray production?

Bremsstrahlung is produced when electrons are decelerated or slowed down by the positive charge of the nucleus. This results in the emission of a continuous spectrum of X rays. Characteristic radiation, on the other hand, is produced when an electron collides with an atom, causing an inner shell electron to be ejected. This creates a vacancy that is filled by an outer shell electron, releasing energy in the form of a specific wavelength of X ray.

4. How do X rays pass through the body to produce an image?

X rays pass through the body due to their high energy and short wavelength. As they pass through the body, they are attenuated (absorbed) by different tissues and structures in the body. This creates a differential pattern of X ray intensity, which is captured by a detector and converted into an image.

5. What safety precautions should be taken when using X rays for imaging?

When using X rays for imaging, it is important to follow proper safety protocols to minimize radiation exposure. This includes wearing lead aprons and gloves, using collimation to limit the X ray beam to the area of interest, and using the lowest possible dose of radiation. It is also important to regularly monitor and maintain X ray equipment to ensure proper functioning and safety.

Similar threads

X-ray production and ionization energy
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
1K
I Why Bremsstrahlung <20keV for Tungsten?
    • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
17
Views
2K
How Many Electrons Does a Cathode Ray Tube Emit Per Second?
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
2K
Obtain Cathode Ray Tubes Without X-rays
    • General Engineering
Replies
9
Views
2K
The intensity of x-rays in a Coolidge tube
    • Optics
Replies
3
Views
2K
I Why do modern X ray images have better resolution compared to older ones?
    • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
6
Views
1K
I X-ray tube to gamma tube question
    • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
7
Views
2K
I Bayard Alpert Gauge X-ray limit
    • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
1
Views
1K
Cathode Ray Tube and magnetic field Question
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
2K
Calculating Roentgens from an X-Ray source
    • Nuclear Engineering
Replies
7
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top