Which radiation is emitted when a stream of accelerating electrons strikes a metal target?

Correct option is A

The Correct answer is (a) X-ray

Explanation:

When a stream of accelerating electrons strikes a metal target, X-rays are emitted. This process is known as the X-ray production mechanism. As high-energy electrons hit the metal target, they cause the inner orbital electrons of the metal atoms to be displaced, which results in the release of energy in the form of X-rays. This phenomenon is the basis for X-ray tubes used in medical imaging.

Information Booster:

1. X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths shorter than visible light, which is why they can penetrate through substances like human tissue.

2. The process of X-ray emission happens when electrons are rapidly decelerated or abruptly stopped by the target material.

3. The energy of the X-rays depends on the energy of the electrons striking the target and the nature of the metal used in the target.

4. X-rays are commonly used in medical imaging and materials testing due to their ability to pass through various materials.

5. The emission of X-rays in this process is the result of bothcharacteristic X-raysandbremsstrahlung(braking radiation).

Additional Information:

•  γ-ray: γ-rays are emitted by the nucleus of an atom, not from electron interactions with a metal target.

•  Cathode ray: cathode rays are streams of electrons, which are not emitted when they strike a metal target. Instead, cathode rays are used in devices like cathode ray tubes (CRT).

•  α-ray: α-rays are emitted by radioactive substances, not as a result of electron interaction with a metal target.