X-Ray Peak Energy: What Determines It?

[terryphi]

Excuse the obvious question. I feel like I should have picked this up somewhere along the way, but the more I think about it the more unsure I am.

My question is: In a gamma spectrum, what determines the energy of an X-Ray peak. What causes it?

 

[NUCENG]

Excuse the obvious question. I feel like I should have picked this up somewhere along the way, but the more I think about it the more unsure I am.

My question is: In a gamma spectrum, what determines the energy of an X-Ray peak. What causes it?

Atomic structure and transition states for spoecific elements an isotopes of those elements are limited to discrete energies. Specific transitions release radiation at specific energies. These transitions create a peak or series of peaks at specific point along the energy spectrum. By measuring the energy across the specturm these peaks are revealed and identify the source isotopes and types of transitions.

 

[raining Pete]

There are a few factors that can determine the energy of an X-ray peak in a gamma spectrum. One factor is the material that the X-ray is interacting with. Different materials have different energy levels that they emit X-rays at, so the composition of the material can affect the energy of the peak. Another factor is the energy level of the incoming gamma ray itself. The higher the energy of the gamma ray, the higher the energy of the resulting X-ray peak. Additionally, the specific atomic structure of the material can also play a role in determining the energy of the X-ray peak. As for what causes the X-ray peak, it is typically the result of an electron transitioning to a lower energy level within an atom, releasing a photon of energy in the form of an X-ray. I hope this helps clarify things for you!