Difference between revisions of "X-ray"
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| − | '''X-rays''' are high-energy photons. | + | '''X-rays''' are high-energy photons. Thus, they are electromagnetic waves (like radio waves, visible light, ultraviolet light, etc.), but are very high-energy and thus have a small wavelength. |
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| + | X-rays can be used for [[scattering]] experiments, because their wavelike nature causes [[Fourier transform|interference]] from scattered radiation. Their small wavelength makes them ideal for probing small length-scales (atomic, molecular, and nano), while their high-[[X-ray energy|energy]] allows them to [[Absorption|penetrate]] through samples. | ||
==Production== | ==Production== | ||
Revision as of 09:48, 20 June 2014
X-rays are high-energy photons. Thus, they are electromagnetic waves (like radio waves, visible light, ultraviolet light, etc.), but are very high-energy and thus have a small wavelength.
X-rays can be used for scattering experiments, because their wavelike nature causes interference from scattered radiation. Their small wavelength makes them ideal for probing small length-scales (atomic, molecular, and nano), while their high-energy allows them to penetrate through samples.
Production
X-rays can be generated in labscale instruments; e.g. using a rotating anode (see Cu K-alpha). High-flux x-ray beams can be generated using synchrotrons.
