SMART X2S User Manual
About this User Manual
DOC-M86-EXS127 V4
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Continuous Spectrum
When accelerated electrons collide with atoms in the metal target, they can be stopped on impact (in
which case all their energy is converted into radiant energy), or they can be decelerated in steps (in
which case a part of their total energy is released in the form of X-rays of greater wavelengths at each
step until it is expended). The incident electron enters the electric field between the electrons and the
nucleus of an atom and is deflected and decelerated by it at the same time. This process is repeated
when the deflected electron enters the electric fields of other atoms.
Figure 1.3 — Production of continuous (white) radiation
The waves of X-rays generated in this way are called “continuous” radiation because they form a
continuous spectrum of wavelengths.