High-energy photons are used to bombard an unknown metal. The strongest peak is found for X-rays with an energy of 66 keV. What is the atomic number of the metal?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The energy of the Kα X-ray line is approximately given by the formula E = 13.6 * (Z-1)^2 * (1/1^2 - 1/2^2) keV, where Z is the atomic number. Solving for Z with E = 66 keV gives Z ≈ 82.

High-Energy Photons Are Used to Bombard an Unknown Metal