Question

The enormous heat that builds up in the CT tube is caused by the:

a.) intensity of the x-rays emitted from the tube
b.) electron beam between the cathode and the anode in the tube
c.) x-ray filter in the tube which absorbs the lower energy photons before they can enter the patient
d.) collision of the electron beam with the tungsten target on the tube anode

Answer 1

The heat in a CT tube is caused by the collision of the accelerated electron beam with the tungsten anode, converting kinetic energy into thermal energy.

Step-by-step explanation:

The enormous heat that builds up in the CT tube is primarily caused by the collision of the electron beam with the tungsten target on the tube anode. When electrons are ejected by thermal agitation from a hot filament and are then accelerated through a high voltage toward the anode, they gain significant kinetic energy. Upon striking the tungsten anode, this kinetic energy is converted into various forms, including thermal energy, which causes the temperature rise. Tungsten is used due to its high melting point, as it can withstand the large amounts of energy absorbed without quickly deteriorating.