PhysicsChapter 11: Medical Imaging
X-Ray Tube — How X-Rays Are Made
An X-ray tube
Definition
An X-ray tube produces X-rays by accelerating electrons through a large potential difference and allowing them to strike a metal target.
Cathode
An X-ray tube contains: A heated filament releases electrons by **thermionic emission**.
High Potential Difference
Electrons are accelerated from cathode toward anode. The maximum kinetic energy gained by an electron is approximately: **Kmax = eV**
Anode/Target
High-speed electrons strike a metal target. Their interactions can produce: continuous X-rays; characteristic X-rays. Most of the electron energy becomes **heat**, so target cooling is important.
Formula / Key Relation
**Kmax = eV**
Exam preparation
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Review the key facts, formulas and checks before you move on.X-Ray Tube — How X-Rays Are Made
Sticky Notes · Quick Revision
X-RAY TUBE
- Heat → electrons
- Voltage → accelerate
- Target → X-rays + lots of heat
60-second revision
- Fast electrons hitting a metal target produce X-rays.
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