X-rays 

X-rays are a well-sought name in the field of medical and modern science. Since its discovery in 1895, with evolving technologies, X-rays and their utilisation have also been evolving. X-rays are not only used in the medical field but also in astronomy for understanding the structure and other aspects of distant stars. With this range of uses, X-rays really are a cornerstone in providing insights into various fields of science. But the question is how these X-rays work and how it is produced. Here in this article, we will dive into these questions along with the science behind X-rays for a better understanding. 

1.0Introduction to X-rays

X-rays are electromagnetic radiation, the energy that travels through space as a wave, with much higher frequency and shorter wavelengths than visible light. Due to high frequency and low wavelength x-rays can penetrate through the soft tissues like the human ones, making them an invaluable tool for diagnosing the human body. In medical science, it is mainly used for identifying a detailed view of internal organs & fractured bones and treating tumours. Beyond healthcare, X-rays have widespread uses in security scanners, industrial testing, and scientific research. 

2.0Properties Of X-rays

• High Energy: X-rays have high energy due to the presence of short wavelengths and high frequency, which helps them penetrate soft tissues but get absorbed by denser materials like bones or metals, hence making images of such materials. 
• Ionising Radiation: X-rays can ionize atoms meaning they can make the atoms in a positive or negative state and molecules, damaging biological tissues. This is why exposure must be controlled to avoid harm.
• Invisible: X-rays can not be seen in the human eye as their wavelength is too short for the human retina to detect.
• Penetrating Power: X-rays can pass through different materials, making them useful in medical imaging and security screening.
• Fluorescence: some materials, when exposed to X-rays, emit visible light, a property known as fluorescence.

3.0Production of X-rays

The Production of X-rays is done in an X-ray tube which is a device specialised to generate X-rays. Here's how the whole process works:

Electron Emission (Cathode):

An Electric current is given to the cathode, which heats up the cathode (the negatively charged electrode). This heat results in the emission of electrons into the X-ray tube.

Electron Acceleration (High Voltage):

After emission, the emitted electrons are accelerated by a high voltage between the cathode and the anode (the positively charged electrode). This high voltage gives the electrons high kinetic energy, making them travel at very fast speeds.

Electron Collision (Anode Target):

The high-energy electrons strike the anode, which usually contains tungsten or another dense metal. Due to the impact of this strike, two things happen: 

• Bremsstrahlung Radiation: Electrons are decelerated by the positive charge of the tungsten atoms, releasing energy in the form of X-rays.
• Characteristic Radiation: Some electrons knock inner electrons out of the tungsten atoms. When outer electrons fall into these vacant spaces, they release X-rays with specific wavelengths.

X-ray Emission:

The X-rays generated from the collisions are emitted in all directions. The X-ray tube is designed with a window that allows the X-rays to escape and be directed toward the object being imaged.

4.0Types of X-Ray Imaging

There are various kinds of X-ray imaging methods, depending on the situation.

• Standard X-rays (Radiography): Most people think of these when they think of X-rays. They are great for checking bones and identifying fractures. Example: A quick chest X-ray to diagnose pneumonia or a broken rib.
• Fluoroscopy: Unlike standard X-rays, fluoroscopy provides continuous, real-time X-ray images. Example: Using fluoroscopy to guide the placement of a catheter or observe the movement of the digestive system.
• CT Scans (Computed Tomography): A CT scan produces fine-grained three-dimensional images of the body's interior by combining many X-ray images taken from various perspectives. Example: A CT scan is used to locate and assess a tumour.
• Mammograms: This specialized X-ray is used to examine breast tissue and detect any abnormal growths or signs of cancer.

5.0Uses of X-Rays

• Medical Imaging: X-ray radiography is commonly used in medicine to examine the body’s internal structures, like bones and organs. 
• Security: X-rays are employed in security scanners at airports and other locations to inspect luggage, packages, and carry-on items for dangerous materials or explosives.
• Industrial Testing: In non-destructive testing (NDT), X-rays help detect internal faults or weaknesses in materials without causing any harm to them.
• Scientific Research: X-ray crystallography is used in science to determine the atomic structure of materials, especially in chemistry and biology.
• Astronomy: X-ray telescopes are used in space exploration to study high-energy phenomena like black holes, neutron stars, and supernovae.