Characteristic peaks occur in an x-ray spectrum of an atom because electrons in the atom make transitions to lower energy levels after being bombarded with high energy electrons.

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Characteristic peaks are created when electrons in an atom transition from a higher energy level to a lower energy level, emitting x-ray photons with specific energies. This occurs when the atom is bombarded with high-energy electrons or other particles, which can excite the electrons to higher energy levels. When the electrons relax back down to lower energy levels, they emit x-rays with energies corresponding to the energy difference between the levels.

Characteristic Peaks Occur in an X-Ray Spectrum of an Atom