Final answer:
X-rays are generated when high-energy electrons collide with a metal target in an X-ray tube, resulting in braking radiation and the production of X-ray photons.
Step-by-step explanation:
X-rays are produced when a fast-moving stream of electrons hits a metal target. In an X-ray tube, electrons are ejected from a filament by thermal agitation and then accelerated toward the target by an electric field. When these high-energy electrons strike the target material, they convert their kinetic energy into various forms, including X-ray photons. The interaction between the fast electrons and the target atoms results in braking radiation, or 'bremsstrahlung,' a type of radiation that occurs due to the deceleration of charged particles when they are deflected by other charged particles, typically electrons in atoms. The emitted X-ray photons are a form of electromagnetic (EM) radiation that can have a continuous range of frequencies. The process not only generates heat but also produces diagnostic X-rays utilizable in medical imaging and other applications.
X-rays are produced when a fast moving stream of electrons hits a target. This can occur in an X-ray tube or by bombarding a metal target with high-energy electrons. When the electrons strike the target, they suddenly slow down and emit radiation, which includes X-rays. The interaction of the electrons with the target atoms leads to the production of X-ray photons.