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The diagram shows the main parts of an X-ray tube - Edexcel - GCSE Physics - Question 6 - 2016 - Paper 1
Question 6
The diagram shows the main parts of an X-ray tube. electron beam high voltage supply vacuum heavy metal target (i) The electrons in the beam escape from a hot fila... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The diagram shows the main parts of an X-ray tube - Edexcel - GCSE Physics - Question 6 - 2016 - Paper 1
Step 1
(i) State the name of the process by which electrons escape from a hot filament.
Answer
The process by which electrons escape from a hot filament is called thermionic emission. This occurs when the filament is heated to a high temperature, causing the electrons to gain sufficient energy to overcome the attractive forces holding them within the material.
Step 2
(ii) Explain why there must be a vacuum inside the X-ray tube.
Answer
A vacuum inside the X-ray tube is essential for two main reasons:
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Prevent Collisions: The vacuum ensures that the electrons emitted from the filament do not collide with gas molecules or air particles. This is important because such collisions could cause the electrons to scatter, lose energy, or be deflected from their intended paths.
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Maintain Electron Speed: By maintaining a vacuum, the electrons can travel freely towards the anode without slowing down or losing energy due to interactions with air particles. This allows the electrons to reach the anode with adequate kinetic energy to produce X-rays efficiently.