PhysicsChapter 11: Medical Imaging
Continuous X-Rays (bremsstrahlung)
Bremsstrahlung
Definition
Bremsstrahlung is X-ray radiation produced when fast electrons are accelerated or decelerated in the electric fields of target atoms, producing a continuous spectrum of photon energies.
Formula / Key Relation
“Bremsstrahlung” means braking radiation. An incoming electron passes near a target nucleus. Its path and velocity change because of the electric interaction. The electron loses some kinetic energy. That energy can be emitted as an X-ray photon. Different electrons lose different amounts of energy. Therefore, a continuous range of X-ray photon energies is produced. **Photon energy ≤ electron kinetic energy Maximum possible photon energy: Emax = eV**
Exam preparation
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Review the key facts, formulas and checks before you move on.Continuous X-Rays (bremsstrahlung)
Sticky Notes · Quick Revision
BRAKING
- Electron slows/deflects
- → loses KE
- → X-ray photon
60-second revision
- Electron deceleration produces a continuous X-ray spectrum.
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