Final answer:
The x-ray photons emitted from the radiation generated at the target of the dental x-ray tube are categorized as characteristic x rays. These x rays are produced by atomic excitations unique to a given type of anode material.
Step-by-step explanation:
The x-ray photons emitted from the radiation generated at the target of the dental x-ray tube are categorized as characteristic x rays. These x rays are produced by atomic excitations unique to a given type of anode material. The spectrum of x rays obtained from an x-ray tube shows a smooth distribution resulting from electrons being decelerated in the anode material, called bremsstrahlung radiation, and sharp peaks called characteristic x rays.