X-rays - its production, properties and its uses

X-rays are a part of the electromagnetic spectrum, hence they are nothing but a type of electromagnetic wave.

Let us see how it is produced-

German physicist W. C. Rontgen discovered X-rays while studying cathode rays. Hence, X-rays are also called Rontgen rays.

Cathode ray is a stream of electrons emitted by the cathode in a vacuum tube.X-rays are produced when cathode rays are suddenly stopped by an obstacle, the retarded wave that is produced is the X-ray

Some properties of X-rays-

They are high energy EM waves.

They are not deflected by electric and magnetic fields.

They have high penetrating power.

Their over dose can kill living plant and animal tissues and hence are harmful.

X-rays ionize the gases through which they pass

Some uses of X-rays-

X-rays are useful in the study of the structure of crystals.

X-ray photographs are useful to detect bone fracture.X-rays are also used in CT scan.

X-rays are used to detect flaws or cracks in metals.

These are used for detection of explosives,

opium etc.