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 wavelength is 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

When a beam of electrons strikes a heavy metal surface, the electrons are decelerated by the electric field of the metal atoms. As a result, they emit bremsstrahlung radiation, which is characterized by a continuous spectrum of wavelengths that extends from zero up to a maximum value determined by the energy of the incident electrons. Therefore, option C is correct. Option A is incorrect because there is no specific wavelength of X-rays produced. Option B is incorrect because the spectrum is continuous, not monochromatic. Option D is incorrect because the maximum wavelength depends on the energy of the electrons, not the other way around.

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