X-Rays Flashcards | A-Level Physics CIE

How are X-Rays produced?

X-rays are produced by electrons accelerated through a high potential difference striking a metal plate.

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What is the equation that links minimum X-ray wavelength ( $\lambda$ _min), and accelerating potential difference (V)?

λmin = e Vh c

$\lambda$ _min= minimum wavelength (m)

h = planck constant = 6.63 x 10^-34 (J s)

c = speed of light = 3 x 10⁸ (m s^-1)

e =charge of electron = 1.6 x 10^-19 (C)

V = accelerating potential difference (V)

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How are X-Rays used for imaging?

Different tissues attenuate X-rays differently, providing contrast.

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How does CT scanning work?

Multiple 2D X-rays are combined at different angles to produce a 3D image.

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What is the formula that links initial intensity (I₀), transmitted intensity (I), attenuation coefficient ( $\mu$ ), and thickness ( $x$ ).

I = I0 e−μx

I = Intensity (W m^-2)

I₀ = initial intensity (W m^-2)

$\mu$ = attenuation coefficient (m^-1)

$x$ = thickness (m)

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How can the resolution of a CT image be improved?

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