X-RAYS

TAG: GS-3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

CONTEXT: On November 8, 1895, Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen was conducting experiments in his laboratory at the University of Würzburg in Germany when he noticed a fluorescent screen mysteriously glowing even though the cathode ray tube was very far away. This led him to discover X-rays, a new form of invisible radiation.

EXPLANATION:

About the X-rays:

  • It is a type of high-energy electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength shorter than that of visible light and a frequency higher than that of visible light.
  • They can penetrate most materials, including the human body, and form images of internal structures.
  • They are commonly used to diagnose diseases, detect bone fractures, and in industries such as security to scan object and identify materials.
  • X-rays are a type of electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths shorter than visible light but longer than gamma rays. They have various applications in medicine, industry, and scientific research.

 Properties of X-rays:

  • Wavelength: X-rays have a wavelength range from about 0.01 to 10 nanometers.
  • High Energy: They carry more energy than visible light, making them capable of passing through materials that light cannot.
  • Ionizing Radiation: X-rays are capable of ionizing atoms, which means they can knock electrons off atoms and molecules, potentially causing damage to biological tissues.

Uses of X-rays:

  • Medical Imaging: The most common use of X-rays is in medical diagnostics, where they help visualize the inside of the body. This includes:
    • X-ray radiography (e.g., detecting fractures or infections).
    • CT scans (computed tomography), which provide more detailed images by taking multiple X-ray images from different angles.
  • Cancer Treatment: X-rays are used in radiotherapy to treat cancer by killing cancerous cells.
  • Security: X-ray machines are used in airports and other security systems to check for contraband in luggage.
  • Material Testing: X-rays are used in non-destructive testing in industries to detect faults in materials and machinery.

Applications:

  • X-ray Crystallography: This technique is crucial in studying the structure of molecules, including the famous work done on DNA and proteins.
  • Synchrotron Radiation: A highly intense form of X-rays generated in particle accelerators, used for advanced research in materials science, biology, and chemistry.

Health and Safety Considerations:

  • Radiation Risks: Prolonged or excessive exposure to X-rays can increase the risk of cancer and other health issues, as they are ionizing and can damage DNA. However, medical X-ray exposure is generally kept at safe levels.
  • Protective Measures: Radiologists and technicians use lead aprons and other shielding techniques to minimize exposure.

Technological Developments:

  • Over the years, X-ray technology has evolved with advancements such as digital X-rays, which offer clearer images with lower doses of radiation, and positron emission tomography (PET) scans, which combine X-ray imaging with radioactive tracers to show functional processes in the body.

Source:

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-history/how-rontgen-accidentally-discovered-x-rays-how-this-changed-the-world-9659968/

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