Molybdenum is used as a target for production of x-rays, because it is

Options

A. a heavy element and can easily absorb high velocity electrons
B. a heavy element with a high melting point
C. an element having low thermal conductivity
D. heavy and can easily deflect electrons

Answer

To answer the question of why molybdenum is used as a target for the production of X-rays, we can break down the reasoning into clear steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Role of the Target Material**:
- In an X-ray tube, a target material is needed where electrons collide to produce X-rays. The target must be able to withstand high temperatures generated during this process.

2. **Properties Required for the Target Material**:
- The target material should be **heavy**. Heavy materials have a higher atomic number, which increases the efficiency of X-ray production.
- The target material should also have a **high melting point**. This is crucial because the high-energy electrons striking the target generate significant heat, and a high melting point ensures that the material does not melt or degrade under such conditions.

3. **Characteristics of Molybdenum**:
- Molybdenum is a heavy element with an atomic number of 42. Its density contributes to its effectiveness as a target.
- Molybdenum has a high melting point of about 2,623 degrees Celsius (4,753 degrees Fahrenheit), making it suitable for use in X-ray tubes where high temperatures are generated.

4. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, molybdenum is used as a target for the production of X-rays because it is a heavy element with a high melting point, allowing it to withstand the extreme conditions present in an X-ray tube.

### Final Answer:
Molybdenum is used as a target for the production of X-rays because it is a heavy element with a high melting point.

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