Q135 / 180 · AIIMS 2003 · Physics

Characteristic X-rays are produced due to

  • A
    transfer of momentum in collision of electrons with target atoms
  • Correct answer
    B
    transition of electron from higher to lower electrons orbits in an atom
  • C
    heating of the target
  • D
    transfer of energy in collision of electrons with atoms in the target.

Solution

When the high energy electron hits the target and takes out an electron from the inner orbit, there is a possibility of an outer electron to fall down to fill up that vacancy. And when such a transition of electron takes place from a higher energy level to a lower energy level, the difference of energy between the two levels is given off in the form of radiation known as characteristic X-rays.

Hence, the correct answer is option: 'B'.

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