Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Production and use of X-rays

Production and use of X-rays — practice question

A potential difference of $15\text{ kV}$ speeds up the electrons. They then strike a metal target, and an X-ray spectrum is emitted.
(a(i))[3]

Explain why the X-ray photons have a continuous spread of energies.

(a(ii))[3]

Calculate the wavelength of the X-ray photon with the greatest energy produced.

(b(i))[2]

Determine the linear attenuation (absorption) coefficient $\mu$ for the X-ray beam in this tissue.

(b(ii))[2]

Determine the thickness of tissue that the X-ray beam must travel through for its intensity to drop to $5.0\%$ of its initial value.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 10-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Rapidly slowed electrons emit X-ray photons

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