Electrons are used to produce x-rays by allowing a beam of electrons to strike a heavy metal surface. What is true about the wavelengths of the bremsstrahlung x-rays that are produced in such a situation?
A) There are a few specific wavelengths that are produced for a given metal and their wavelengths are independent of the energy of the electron beam used.
B) There is a single wavelength of x-ray produced that depends on the energy of the electron beam used.
C) There is a continuous range of wavelengths produced, down to a minimum that depends on the energy of the electron beam used.
D) There is a continuous range of wavelengths produced, up to a maximum that depends on the energy of the electron beam used.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Bremsstrahlung x-rays are produced when a beam of electrons decelerate upon striking a heavy metal surface. The resulting x-ray spectrum is continuous and extends from a minimum energy (or wavelength) up to a maximum energy (or wavelength), with the minimum energy being dependent on the energy of the electron beam used. Thus, a continuous range of wavelengths is produced, down to a minimum that depends on the energy of the electron beam used.

Electrons Are Used to Produce X-Rays by Allowing a Beam