What is the primary physical mechanism of X-ray generation in a clinical Coolidge X-ray tube? (Hard)
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Rapid deceleration of high-speed electrons in the heavy metal target anode (Bremsstrahlung)
- Step 1: Thermionic emission from a heated tungsten cathode releases electrons accelerated by high voltage (40-150 kV) toward a rotating tungsten target anode. Step 2. Deflection and sudden deceleration of incident electrons by atomic nuclei converts kinetic energy into continuous Bremsstrahlung X-ray radiation. Answer: Rapid deceleration of high-speed electrons in the heavy metal target anode (Bremsstrahlung). Why not the others: Tungsten target is stable, not radioactive; cathode filament generates electrons, not X-rays; glass envelope maintains vacuum.
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