What influences the velocity of electrons striking the target in an x-ray tube?

The velocity of electrons striking the target in an x-ray tube is primarily influenced by the voltage difference between the cathode and anode. When a high voltage is applied between these two electrodes, it creates a strong electric field that accelerates the electrons emitted from the cathode towards the anode. The higher the voltage, the greater the acceleration of the electrons, resulting in an increase in their velocity as they collide with the anode.

This collision generates x-rays as the kinetic energy of the high-speed electrons is converted into electromagnetic radiation upon hitting the target. The voltage not only determines the speed of the electrons but also affects the energy of the x-rays produced, which is crucial for the quality of the radiographic images generated in radiographic testing.

Other factors, while important in their own right, do not directly impact the velocity of electrons in the same manner. The current represents the number of electrons flowing, not their velocity, and the temperature can affect the emission of electrons but does not influence their acceleration to the same extent as voltage. The type of radiation mentioned does not apply to the mechanism of x-ray production in this context.