Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is one of the primary purposes of adding thorium to the tungsten filament in the X-ray tube?
What is one of the primary purposes of adding thorium to the tungsten filament in the X-ray tube?
- To increase the melting point of tungsten
- To allow for easier vaporization
- To enhance thermionic emissions and prolong tube life (correct)
- To reduce the size of the filament
Which characteristic of Pyrex makes it suitable for use in the X-ray tube?
Which characteristic of Pyrex makes it suitable for use in the X-ray tube?
- Its low thermal conductivity
- Its resistance to high temperatures (correct)
- Its opacity to visible light
- Its ability to emit X-rays
What is the role of the focusing cup in the X-ray tube?
What is the role of the focusing cup in the X-ray tube?
- To enhance the glass envelope's strength
- To direct electrons towards the anode (correct)
- To increase the temperature of the filament
- To contain the vacuum of the tube
What type of component is the X-ray tube classified as regarding its electrodes?
What type of component is the X-ray tube classified as regarding its electrodes?
Why is it important that the X-ray tube maintains a vacuum?
Why is it important that the X-ray tube maintains a vacuum?
Flashcards
X-ray Tube
X-ray Tube
A specialized diode consisting of a cathode and an anode, producing X-rays when electrons bombard the anode target.
Cathode
Cathode
The negative side of the X-ray tube, containing the filament and focusing cup.
Filament
Filament
A coiled wire within the cathode that emits electrons when heated.
Anode Target
Anode Target
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Thermionic Emission
Thermionic Emission
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Study Notes
X-ray Tube Components
- X-ray tube: An essential, but usually inaccessible, component of X-ray imaging systems.
- Protective housing: Contains the X-ray tube, protecting the technologist.
- Two primary parts: Cathode and anode.
- Diode: Any electronic tube with two electrodes.
- X-ray tube: A special type of diode.
- Pyrex glass: High heat resistance for the X-ray tube.
- Vacuum: Maintains a vacuum inside the tube.
- Tube window: Thinner glass segment.
Cathode
- Negative electrode of the X-ray tube.
- Two main parts: Filament and focusing cup.
- Filament: Coil of wire (much smaller than a kitchen toaster filament)
- Filament dimensions: Approximately 2 mm in diameter and 1 to 2 cm long.
- Filament heating: Electric current causes filament to glow, emitting heat and electrons.
- Filament material: Thoriated tungsten
- Tungsten properties: High melting point (3410°C), not as prone to burning out as a regular filament. Does not vaporize easily, preventing the tube from becoming gassy.
- Thorium addition: 1% to 2% thorium enhances thermionic emission and extends tube lifespan.
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Description
Explore the essential components of an X-ray tube, focusing on the protective housing, cathode, and anode. Learn about the specifics of the filament, its materials, and the unique characteristics of the tube's construction. This quiz is perfect for understanding the fundamentals of X-ray imaging systems.
