discuss the formation and properties of x-rays, and factors affecting x-ray absorption

Formation of X-Rays:

1. X-rays are formed when a metal target is bombarded with high energy electrons in a vacuum tube. This process is known as X-ray production.

2. The high energy electrons are produced by heating a filament until it emits electrons, a process known as thermionic emission.

3. These electrons are then accelerated towards the metal target by a high voltage.

4. When the high energy electrons collide with the metal target, their kinetic energy is converted into X-ray photons. This is due to the interaction of the electrons with the electric field of the atoms in the metal target.

Properties of X-Rays:

1. X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation, similar to light but with much higher energy.

2. They have the ability to penetrate matter, including body tissues.

3. X-rays are ionizing radiation, meaning they have enough energy to remove tightly bound electrons from atoms, which can damage or destroy the atoms.

4. They are also able to produce an image on a photographic film or a digital detector