Intensity-wavelength graph for X-ray

In summary, the cut-off wavelength of X-rays is the minimum wavelength emitted, which corresponds to maximum energy. However, intensity is zero at this wavelength because there are no X-rays emitted. This is because the relation between wavelength and energy means that more photons are needed for higher energy light. The concept of intensity is related to the number of photons per unit area per unit time, not the energy of individual photons.
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Titan97
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The cut-off wavelength is the minimum wavelength of the X-ray emitted. But doesn't minimum wavelength correspond to maximum energy? Why is intensity zero at minimum wavelength? Shouldn't it be maximum when wavelength is minimum since ##\lambda=\frac{hc}{E}##
 
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Titan97 said:
The cut-off wavelength is the minimum wavelength of the X-ray emitted. But doesn't minimum wavelength correspond to maximum energy?
Yes it does.
Why is intensity zero at minimum wavelength?
Because there are no x-rays emitted at that wavelength.
Shouldn't it be maximum when wavelength is minimum since ##\lambda=\frac{hc}{E}##
Unless you have a special reason to think that more light will be emitted at high energies than low energies.

I think you may be getting confused between wave a particle models for light - ##E=hc/\lambda## is the energy of an individual photon - the intensity is the number of photons per unit area per unit time. The relation means that it takes fewer short-wavelength photons to produce a high intensity light.
 
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FAQ: Intensity-wavelength graph for X-ray

What is an intensity-wavelength graph for X-ray?

An intensity-wavelength graph for X-ray is a visual representation of the intensity of X-rays at different wavelengths. It shows the relationship between the energy of X-rays and their corresponding wavelength.

How is an intensity-wavelength graph for X-ray used in scientific research?

Scientists use intensity-wavelength graphs for X-ray to study the properties of X-rays and to determine the energy level of different X-ray sources. It is also used to identify the elements present in a sample by analyzing the characteristic X-ray emission lines.

What are the units of measurement on an intensity-wavelength graph for X-ray?

The intensity is measured in arbitrary units, while the wavelength is typically measured in nanometers (nm) or angstroms (Å).

What factors affect the shape of an intensity-wavelength graph for X-ray?

The shape of an intensity-wavelength graph for X-ray is affected by the energy of the X-rays, the material they are passing through, and the method of X-ray production. The presence of absorption edges and characteristic X-ray emission lines of different elements can also impact the shape of the graph.

Can an intensity-wavelength graph for X-ray be used for imaging purposes?

Yes, intensity-wavelength graphs for X-ray can be used for imaging purposes in X-ray spectroscopy. By analyzing the intensity and wavelength of the X-rays passing through a sample, scientists can create images that reveal the elemental composition and inner structure of the sample.

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