Røntgenstråled

Røntgenstråled, also known as X-rays, are a form of electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths shorter than ultraviolet light and longer than gamma rays. They were discovered in 1895 by German physicist Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen, who was experimenting with cathode ray tubes. Röntgen observed that the rays could pass through opaque objects and cause photographic plates to darken, leading him to call them "X-rays" due to their unknown nature.

The discovery of X-rays revolutionized the fields of medicine and science. In medicine, X-rays are widely used for diagnostic imaging, allowing doctors to visualize bones, organs, and other internal structures. This has been crucial in diagnosing fractures, detecting diseases like cancer, and guiding surgical procedures. Beyond medicine, X-rays are employed in various scientific applications, including crystallography to determine the atomic structure of materials, industrial inspection for detecting flaws in manufactured goods, and security screening at airports.

X-rays are produced when fast-moving electrons collide with a metal target. This interaction generates photons of X-ray radiation. While beneficial, prolonged or excessive exposure to X-rays can be harmful due to their ionizing nature, meaning they can damage living tissues. Therefore, safety precautions are essential when working with X-ray equipment, including shielding and limiting exposure time. The development of more sensitive detectors and digital imaging techniques has further enhanced the utility and safety of X-ray technology.