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| X-ray Tube | The device that generates x-rays by passing an electric current through a vacuum, causing the anode and cathode to interact and produce radiation. |
| Anode | The positive electrode in the x-ray tube, typically made of tungsten, where electrons are rapidly decelerated to produce x-rays. |
| Cathode | The negative electrode in the x-ray tube, which contains the filament that emits electrons when heated. |
| Filament | A coil in the cathode that heats up to emit electrons in preparation for their acceleration toward the anode. |
| Focus Cup | A metal cup in the cathode that focuses the electron stream toward the anode. |
| Thermal Energy | Heat produced as a byproduct of the rapid deceleration of electrons in the x-ray tube. Managing this heat is essential for preventing tube damage. |
| Heat Load | The amount of heat generated in the x-ray tube during exposure. Higher exposures result in more heat, which must be managed to prevent damage to the tube. |
| Anode Heat Capacity | The maximum amount of heat the anode can safely absorb during an exposure. It’s typically measured in joules (J) |
| Rotating Anode | An anode that spins during x-ray production to spread out the heat generated during the exposure. This helps dissipate heat more effectively. |
| Stationary Anode | An anode that does not rotate and has a smaller surface area for heat dissipation, making it less efficient than a rotating anode. |
| Anode Heel Effect | A phenomenon in which the intensity of the x-ray beam is greater on the cathode side of the tube and weaker on the anode side due to heat distribution. |
| Heat Dissipation | The process of transferring excess heat from the anode to prevent overheating. This can involve rotating anodes or using oil and air cooling mechanisms. |
| Cooling Time | The period required for the x-ray tube to cool down after an exposure before it can be used again safely. This is crucial for preventing tube damage from overheating. |
| Anode Cooling Curve | A graph that shows how long it takes for the anode to cool down after various levels of heat load, indicating the necessary time between exposures. |
| Radiator Oil | Special oil used in some x-ray tubes to help dissipate heat. The oil absorbs heat from the anode and helps cool the tube. |
| X-ray Tube Rating Chart | A chart that outlines the safe limits for exposure settings (mA, time, kVp) for a particular tube, preventing overheating and ensuring safe operation. |
| Thermal Storage | The ability of the x-ray tube to store heat. The rotating anode, for example, allows for better heat storage and dissipation compared to a stationary anode. |
| Overheating | The condition where too much heat is generated in the x-ray tube, potentially causing damage to the anode or other parts of the tube. This is why cooling mechanisms and proper exposure times are critical. |
| Cooling System | A mechanism in the x-ray tube that aids in the dissipation of heat, such as oil or forced air cooling. |
| Tube Failure | Damage to the x-ray tube due to excessive heat buildup, which can result in burnt-out filaments, damaged anodes, or a cracked glass envelope. |
