Question

Consider a photon of continous X-ray coming from a coolidge tube. Its energy comes from

• A. KE of the striking electron.
• B. KE of free electron of the target.
• C. KE of the ions of the target.
• D. an atomic transition in the target.

Answer 1

The correct option is A KE of the striking electron.

As the fast-moving electrons in the beam interact with the electrons and nuclei of the target atoms, they are repeatedly deflected and slowed.
During this abrupt deceleration, the beam electrons emit bremddtrshlung (German: braking radiation)a continuous spectrum of electromagnetic radiation.

So, the answer is option (A).