Explain, using suitable sketch graph, how X-ray spectrum in an X-ray tube are formed. 

Explain, using suitable sketch graph, how X-ray spectrum in an X-ray tube are formed. 

The spectrum consists of two major components, i.e. the continuous (background) spectrum and the very sharp line spectrum superimposed onto the background spectrum.

         The continuous spectrum is produced when electrons make multiple collisions with the target atoms in which               they are decelerated. At each deceleration, X-rays of differing wavelength are produced.

         The shortest Wavelength X-rays are produced when electrons lose all their energy as X-ray photon in a single              encounter with the target atoms. The wavelength of the X-rays at this point is known as the cut off wavelength.             At cut off wavelength, energy in an X-ray photon equals kinetic energy of the electron;

The line spectrum

At high tube voltages, the bombarding electrons penetrate deep into the target atoms and knock out electrons from inner shell. The knocked out electrons occupy vacant spaces in higher unfilled shells putting the atom in excited state and making them unstable.

Transition of an electron from higher to lower energy levels results in an emission of X-ray photon of energy equal to energy difference between the energy levels.

If the transition ends in the K-shell, it produces K-series and if the transition ends in L-shell. It produces L-series.

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