Electrons are used to produce x-rays by allowing a beam of electrons to strike a heavy metal surface. What is true about the wavelengths of the characteristic x-rays that are produced in such a situation?
A) There is a continuous range of wavelengths produced, up to a maximum that depends on the energy of the electron beam used.
B) There is a single wavelength of x-ray produced that depends on the energy of the electron beam used.
C) There are a few specific wavelengths that are produced for a given metal and their wavelengths are independent of the energy of the electron beam used.
D) There is a continuous range of wavelengths produced, down to a minimum that depends on the energy of the electron beam used.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When a beam of electrons strikes a heavy metal surface, the electrons in the metal atoms are excited to higher energy levels. When they fall back down to their original energy level, they emit x-rays with specific wavelengths that are characteristic of the metal. These wavelengths are independent of the energy of the electron beam used, so there are only a few specific wavelengths produced for a given metal. This is known as characteristic x-ray emission. Therefore, option C is the correct choice.

Electrons Are Used to Produce X-Rays by Allowing a Beam