What is likely to occur if an X-ray tube operates at too high a temperature?

If an X-ray tube operates at too high a temperature, filament burnout is the most likely outcome. The filament in the X-ray tube is heated to produce electrons through thermionic emission. However, when the temperature exceeds the designed operational limits, it can cause excessive wear or damage to the filament. This overheating can lead to a break in the filament wire, effectively resulting in its failure to emit electrons as needed for X-ray production. Consequently, maintaining the temperature within specified limits is crucial for the longevity and reliability of the X-ray tube, ensuring it operates efficiently without damage to its components.