X-Rays: What They are and How They Work

X-rays are electromagnetic waves which are like light waves, except with a wavelength of about 1,000 times smaller. X-rays are a type of radiation used in imaging and therapy that uses short wavelength energy beams capable of penetrating most substances except heavy metals. These high density materials absorb or reflect x-rays. X-rays are produced when electrons strike a metal target. The electrons are liberated from the heated filament and accelerated by a high voltage towards the metal target.

In 1895, the discovery of X-ray came when a German physicist by the name Wilhelm Roentgen was experimenting with a cathode ray tube. The tube produced weak rays that caused a screen to glow. In order to create a controlled environment, Rontgen placed the cathode tube in a black cardboard box that was too thick for cathode rays to penetrate. Once the cathode ray tube was turned on, however he noticed that another screen across the room began to glow. layer of cardboard, Roentgen realized that he had discovered a new type of ray. This new ray was able to penetrate even the thick walls of his laboratory. He then chose to name them ‘’X-rays’’ since ‘’X’’ is the mathematical symbol for the unknown.

X-rays are widely used in medicine. They are used to reveal the architecture of bones and other soft tissues as well as to find out any abnormality in the form of a fracture or growth of tumour. It is also used in dental surgery to reveal dental imaging. The first medical use of X-rays came in 1896. It was an American physiologist Walter Bradford Cannon who used a fluorescent screen to follow the path of barium sulphate through an animal’s digestive system. This was possible only after Thomas Alva Edition invented the X-ray fluoroscope that same year. Soon after, physicians worldwide began using X-rays on humans, usually to examine bone fractures or to search for foreign objects such as bullets. By 1970 most Americans were receiving at least one x-ray exam every year from physicians and dentist. However, recent evidence has shown that overexpose to X-rays can lead the development of leukaemia. Many doctors now recommend X-ray exams only when absolutely necessary. Different parts of our bodies absorb X-rays differently. The calcium in our bones blocks the X-ray completely. This creates a white a shadow on the film. As soft tissues such as organs, muscles, fat or nerves block only part or none of the beam, they appear in shades of gray. While X-rays are particularly useful in examining bony structures such as the spine, they are not helpful in showing nerve damage or discs between the bones of the vertebrae.

X-rays are used in another part of everyday life which is baggage checking at airports. The most familiar X-ray machines of all are the baggage scanner found at airport terminals. This low-power X-ray device is placed over a conveyor belt, where it scans passengers’ luggage. The machine used in this type of scanner must operate at a very specific frequency. It must be high enough to penetrate hard-shell baggage but low enough to prevent the accidental exposure of camera film. This is highly useful to examine for the presence of dangerous weapons or bombs as well as to detect illegal transit of goods.

In industry X-rays are used to reveal structural information about the material through which it passes or falls over. It can therefore be used to detect structural deficits or cracks in metal objects that are likely to b missed by the human eye. It is also use dot reveal stress related changes in building materials for bridges and aircrafts. They are valuable in industry as a means of testing objects such as metallic castings without destroying them. Moreover X-rays are used as a research tool and for many testing processes.

While X-ray technology hasn’t changed much since it was developed by a German physicist about 100 years ago, it is the base for a number of other imaging techniques. Furthermore X-rays are used to determine the authenticity of works of art and foe the art restoration.  In addition X-rays are used for the detection of fake gems as well as the detection of smuggled goods in customs examination.

X-rays were discovered by accident; however the number of achievements and accomplishments is widely due to the discovery of them in Physics, chemistry and medicine. The most important ones were awarded with the Nobel Prize.  X-rays have been used a lot in medicine, industry, research and all to the great benefit of mankind.