Where is the intensity of the x-ray beam greatest?

The intensity of the x-ray beam is greatest at the cathode end of the beam. This phenomenon occurs due to the design and operation of the x-ray tube. In an x-ray machine, the cathode is the negatively charged electrode where electrons are produced and emitted. These electrons are then directed toward the anode, where they collide and produce x-rays.

As the electrons travel from the cathode to the anode, they gain kinetic energy. When they strike the anode target, the generation of x-rays occurs, but the distribution of these x-rays is not uniform. There is a greater concentration of x-ray photons emitted from the cathode side because the electron cloud around the cathode is denser and contributes to a higher intensity of radiation in that direction.

This is important for x-ray imaging as it influences exposure levels and image quality. Understanding the intensity distribution helps operators position patients and adjust exposure settings to achieve optimal imaging results while maintaining safety protocols.