PHYS 3330 Module 9.1

X-ray Tubes and Producing X-rays

Learning Objectives

By the end of this section, you will be able to:

• Describe the electron source in an X-ray tube and the process of voltage rectification.
• Explain the roles of filament current and tube current in X-ray production.
• Understand and differentiate between bremsstrahlung and characteristic radiation in the emission spectra.
• Identify the properties and significance of target materials in X-ray tubes.
• Interpret X-ray tube ratings, including tube voltage, tube current, and heat units, and understand their impact on X-ray production and equipment performance.

X-ray Tubes

X-ray Tube Transformers

X-ray Tube Circuit