Question

The energy of characteristic X-ray is a consequence of which of the following?

(a) The energy of the projectile electron

(b) The thermal energy of the target

(c) Transition in target atoms

(d) Temperature

I had been asked this question in unit test.

Origin of the question is Atomic Spectra in section Atoms of Physics – Class 12

Answer 1

Correct answer is (c) Transition in target atoms

Explanation: The energy of characteristic X-ray is a consequence of transition in target atoms. They cause emission or absorption of electromagnetic radiation. The other options are not responsible for the energy of characteristic X rays.