Outline and Guide for Learning

Production and Control of X-Radiation

Resources and References
The Physical Principles of Medical Imaging
Online Textbook
Visuals for Discussion

Mind Map of the X-Ray Production Process

INTRODUCTION AND OVERVIEW

THE X-RAY TUBE
Function of the Tube
Anode
General Design
Functions of the Anode
Focal Spot
Cathode
General Design
Function of the Cathode
Envelope (Insert)
General Design
Purpose
Housing
General Description
Functions

ELECTRON ENERGY
The General Concept of Electron Energy
Types of Electron Energy
Potential (electric circuits and binding energy within atoms)
Kinetic (within electronic and x-ray tubes, radiation particles within tissue, etc)
Rest Mass (source of radiation in PET)

BREMSSTRAHLUNG
The Name
The Production Process
Spectrum of Photon Energies
Effect of KV on the Spectrum and Quantity of Radiation
Effect of MA on the Quantity of Radiation
Effect of Anode Material

CHARACTERISTIC RADIATION
The Name
The Production Process
Effect of Anode Material
Spectrum of Photon Energies
Tungsten
Molybdenum
Rhodium
Effect of KV on the Spectrum and Quantity of Radiation
Effect of MA on the Quantity of Radiation

EFFICIENCY
General Concept of Production Efficiency
X-ray Production (% of electrical energy)
Heat Production (% of electrical energy)
Effect of Anode Material
Effect of KV
NOTE: More details of heat production and its effect on clinical imaging is discussed in another session.

EFFICACY (OUTPUT)
General Concept
Units (mR/mAs at 1 meter)
Effect of Anode Material
Effect of KV
Effect of KV Waveform
Typical Values