Why Don't Electrons Stick to the Anode in a Cathode Ray Tube?

[alan4cult]

Homework Statement

I'm have a little problem with understanding the workings of a cathode ray tube. I understand that a filament is heated and that in turn heats the cathode which, due to thermionic emission emits electrons.

OK so here is my problem. A positively charged anode is used to attract the electrons towards the screen but how come the electrons do not stick to this "positively" charged anode but instead continue past it to the screen?

I hope you understand what I mean!

I'm sorry if I posted this in the wrong forum. I'm new here.

 

[blochwave]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cathode_ray_tube

as you can see from the picture, the anode's not actually in the path of the electron beam

 

[Moetasim]

Dear student,

Thank you for reaching out with your question about the workings of a cathode ray tube. I am happy to help clarify this concept for you.

Firstly, you are correct in understanding that the cathode is heated to emit electrons through thermionic emission. These electrons are then accelerated towards the positively charged anode by an electric field. However, the reason why the electrons do not stick to the anode is due to the electric field created by the anode.

As the electrons approach the anode, they experience a repulsive force from the positively charged anode. This repulsive force is stronger than the attractive force between the anode and electrons, causing the electrons to continue their path towards the screen. Additionally, the anode is typically coated with a material that prevents the electrons from sticking to it.

I hope this explanation helps to clarify your understanding of the cathode ray tube. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to ask.

Best regards,