When high energetic electron beam , (i.e., cathode rays) strike the heavier metal, then X-ray are produced. Spectrum of X-ray are classified into two categories: (i) continous spectrum, and (ii) characteristic depends only on the potential difference across the electrode. But wavelength of characteristic spectrum depends on the atomic number `(z)`.
The production of continuous X-ray is due to the

Options

A. acceleration of incident electrons by the the nucleus of the target atom
B. electron transition between inner shells of the target atom
C. electron transition between outer shells of the target atom
D. annibilation of the mass of incident electrons

Explanation

To solve the question regarding the production of continuous X-rays when a high-energy electron beam (cathode rays) strikes a heavier metal, we will break down the process step by step.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Setup**:
- High-energy electrons (cathode rays) are directed towards a target made of a heavier metal.
- When these electrons collide with the metal, they can produce X-rays.

**Hint**: Identify the components involved in the production of X-rays: the electron beam and the target metal.

2. **Types of X-ray Spectrum**:
- The X-ray spectrum is classified into two types: continuous spectrum and characteristic spectrum.
- The continuous spectrum is produced due to the deceleration of electrons, while the characteristic spectrum arises from transitions of electrons between energy levels in the atoms of the target metal.

**Hint**: Recall the difference between continuous and characteristic spectra in X-ray production.

3. **Production of Continuous X-rays**:
- Continuous X-rays are produced when the high-energy electrons are decelerated upon interaction with the heavy metal atoms.
- As the electrons approach the nucleus of the target atoms, they experience a strong electrostatic attraction, which causes them to decelerate and change direction.

**Hint**: Focus on the role of the nucleus in affecting the motion of the incoming electrons.

4. **Acceleration and Energy Conversion**:
- The change in direction and speed of the electrons as they are attracted to the nucleus results in the emission of electromagnetic radiation, which is observed as continuous X-rays.
- The energy lost during this deceleration is converted into X-ray photons.

**Hint**: Consider how energy transformations occur during the interaction between the electrons and the nucleus.

5. **Conclusion**:
- The production of continuous X-rays is primarily due to the acceleration (deceleration) of the incident electrons caused by the electrostatic forces from the nucleus of the target atom.

**Final Answer**: The production of continuous X-rays is due to the acceleration of the incident electrons by the nucleus of the target atom.

### Summary of Key Points:
- Continuous X-rays result from the deceleration of high-energy electrons.
- This deceleration is caused by the strong electrostatic attraction to the nucleus of the target atom.
- The energy lost during this process is emitted as X-ray photons.