Röntgenröhre

Röntgenröhre, also known as an X-ray tube, is a vacuum tube that produces X-rays. It consists of a cathode that emits electrons and an anode that accelerates them. When the high-speed electrons strike the anode, they generate X-rays through processes called bremsstrahlung and characteristic X-ray emission. The X-rays then exit the tube through a window.

The development of the Röntgenröhre is credited to Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen, who discovered X-rays in 1895. His discovery revolutionized medical imaging and scientific research, earning him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1901. Early X-ray tubes were simple devices, but advancements over the decades have led to more sophisticated and efficient designs.

Röntgenröhren are crucial components in various applications. In medicine, they are used for diagnostic imaging, such as radiography and computed tomography (CT) scans, as well as for radiation therapy to treat cancer. In industry, they are employed for non-destructive testing of materials, security screening, and material analysis. Scientific research also utilizes X-ray tubes for crystallography, spectroscopy, and other analytical techniques.

The operation of a Röntgenröhre involves precise control of voltage and current. The voltage applied between the cathode and anode determines the energy of the emitted X-rays, while the current controls the intensity. Modern X-ray tubes often incorporate rotating anodes to dissipate the heat generated during operation, allowing for higher power output and longer tube life. Safety considerations, such as shielding to prevent radiation exposure, are paramount in the design and use of Röntgenröhren.