What are the main components of an X-ray tube?

The main components of an X-ray tube are the anode and cathode, which are housed within a vacuum-sealed glass envelope. The cathode serves as the source of electrons; it consists of a filament that heats up to produce electrons through thermionic emission. This cloud of electrons is directed towards the anode when a high voltage is applied. The anode is typically made of a dense material, such as tungsten, to effectively convert the kinetic energy of the incoming electrons into X-ray photons upon impact. The vacuum environment within the glass tube ensures that there is no air resistance to disrupt the flow of electrons from the cathode to the anode, allowing for efficient X-ray production. This fundamental design is critical for the operation of X-ray machines and is essential for producing high-quality radiographic images.