Characteristic X-rays are produced as part of which process?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the origin of characteristic X-rays, specifically whether they arise from the photoelectric effect, collisional X-ray production, both, or neither. Understanding the mechanisms of X-ray production will help determine the correct answer.
Answer
High-energy particles bombard an element, ejecting inner-shell electrons, and outer-shell electrons fill the vacancy.
Characteristic X-rays are produced when high-energy particles, such as electrons, photons, or ions, bombard an element, causing inner-shell electrons to be ejected and outer-shell electrons to fill the vacancy.
Answer for screen readers
Characteristic X-rays are produced when high-energy particles, such as electrons, photons, or ions, bombard an element, causing inner-shell electrons to be ejected and outer-shell electrons to fill the vacancy.
More Information
The energy of the characteristic X-rays is specific to the element's electron energy levels, hence the name 'characteristic'.
Tips
A common mistake is thinking that characteristic X-rays are produced by interactions with the nucleus of the atom, when they are actually produced by interactions with the electron shells.
Sources
- Characteristic X-ray - Wikipedia - en.wikipedia.org
- What is the process called that produces characteristic X-rays? - physics.stackexchange.com
- Problem 28 How are x rays produced?... [FREE SOLUTION] - Vaia - vaia.com
AI-generated content may contain errors. Please verify critical information
