ability to image small objects that have high subject contrast, such as a bone–soft tissue interface, a breast microcalcification, or a calcified lung nodule
Smaller focal spot =
better spatial resolution
Smaller area =
less area to dissipate heat
Three things are needed in the x-ray tube for x-ray production:
a large potential difference to give kinetic energy to filament electrons (provided by the kVp setting),
a vehicle on which kinetic energy can ride (source of electrons provided by mAs),
and a place for interaction (the anode target).
Potential difference =
The amount of energy per unit charge needed to move a charged particle from a reference point to a designated point
how many directions do electrons flow
Electrons flow in only one direction in the x-ray tube—from cathode to anode.
what is the flow of electrons called and how is i measured
This flow of electrons is called the tube current and is measured in milliamperes (mA)
how much of the electrons energy is converted into heat after hiting the anode taarget
As electrons strike the anode target, approximately 99% of their kinetic energy is converted to heat
2 types of Target interactions are called
1. Characteristic
2. Bremsstrahlung
if the photons have enouh energy to knock out the K shell it is called
target characteristic interaction
energy released by the computation of electrons is called
photons
the swinging around the nucleus releasing energy as it changes direction phonton what is this called