Question

Why is a mono-energetic radiation source required in X-ray fluorescent spectrometer?

(a) To provide good sensitivity

(b) To provide high accuracy

(c) To provide a proper range

(d) To reduce unwanted background

This question was posed to me in a national level competition.

My doubt is from X-Ray Fluorescent Spectrometer topic in section X-Ray Spectrometers of Analytical Instrumentation

Answer 1

Correct choice is (d) To reduce unwanted background

The best I can explain: Mono-energetic radiation source is required in X-ray fluorescent spectrometer to reduce unwanted background. This occurs due to the scattering occurring over a broad range of wavelengths.