Which radiation type is emitted from a target following electron impact?

The correct answer, X-ray radiation, is emitted from a target when high-energy electrons collide with it. This process occurs in x-ray tubes, where electrons are accelerated toward a metal target, typically made of tungsten. When these electrons strike the target, they transfer their kinetic energy to the atoms of the target material. The interaction can cause the electrons of the target atoms to be ejected from their orbits, resulting in vacancies. As other electrons fill these vacancies, they release energy in the form of x-rays.

This process is specific to x-ray production and is fundamental to how diagnostic imaging works in radiology. X-ray radiation is characterized by its ability to penetrate body tissues, making it useful for creating images of internal structures for medical diagnostics.

Thermal energy, direct radiation, and secondary radiation pertain to different interactions and outcomes in radiation physics. Thermal energy refers to the heat generated during electron impact, which is not the primary focus during x-ray production. Direct radiation can be a vague term and does not specifically describe the x-ray production process. Secondary radiation refers to radiation that is emitted as a result of other radiation interacting with matter, which is a different process from the primary emission of x-rays due to electron impact on a target.