What is the purpose of including a rapidly rotating disc-shaped target in some X-ray tubes?

Including a rapidly rotating disc-shaped target in some X-ray tubes serves to enhance the cooling properties of the system. When the target rotates, it distributes the heat generated during X-ray production over a larger surface area, thus preventing localized overheating. This is crucial because excessive heat can damage the target and degrade image quality. By effectively managing heat through rotation, the target sustains its integrity and performance longer, allowing for extended usage time and maintaining consistent output during radiographic procedures. The design directly impacts the X-ray tube's ability to handle larger workloads without compromising safety or effectiveness.