Physical Properties of X-rays
X-rays are the electromagnetic radiations of high energy and low wavelength produced by the conversion of Kinetic energy of electrons into electromagnetic radiations.
Here is the Physical Properties of X-rays-
- X-rays are Electro Magnetic radiations and behave as waves.
- X-rays wavelength ranges from 0.1-0.5˚ A with energy levels of 25-25 KeV.
- These are high-energy radiations with high frequency. (Energy is inversely related to wavelength) Because of their high energy, X-ray can able to penetrate materials, which readily absorb and reflect visible light.
- X- rays travel in a straight line with the speed of light (3 x108 m/sec).
- X- rays cannot be focused by use of lens.
- X- rays do not possess Mass or charge and thus are unaffected by electrical or magnetic fields.
- X- rays interact with matter, are absorbed or scattered and liberate minute heat on passing through it. Thicker and denser the material more is the absorption and scattering.
- X- rays affect phosphorescence or fluorescence in certain crystalline materials like calcium tungstate and Zinc Cadmium sulphide.
- X-rays affect photographic film by a chemical reaction initiated in a way similar to that of visible light.
- X-rays are able to produce indirect ionizing effect on gases because of their ability to remove electrons from atoms.