What is thermionic emission? Where does it occur in an X-ray tube? - Leaving Cert Physics - Question 4 - 2022
Question 4
What is thermionic emission? Where does it occur in an X-ray tube?
Worked Solution & Example Answer:What is thermionic emission? Where does it occur in an X-ray tube? - Leaving Cert Physics - Question 4 - 2022
Step 1
What is thermionic emission?
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Answer
Thermionic emission is the process by which electrons are emitted from a material due to thermal energy. When a surface is heated to a sufficiently high temperature, the thermal energy allows some electrons to overcome the work function of the material and escape into the surrounding space.
Step 2
Where does it occur in an X-ray tube?
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Answer
Thermionic emission occurs at the cathode of an X-ray tube. The cathode is heated, causing the electrons to be emitted from its surface, which are then accelerated towards the anode to produce X-rays.
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