Distance traveled by X-rays in air

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the energy of X-rays based on their distance traveled in air before absorption. A user inquired about methods to estimate this energy using an X-ray detector. Mark provided a valuable resource, the NIST XCOM online calculator, which offers attenuation coefficients for various materials, aiding in the determination of X-ray energy. This approach, while basic, allows for a general understanding of X-ray energy levels.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of X-ray physics and attenuation
  • Familiarity with X-ray detectors and their functionality
  • Basic knowledge of material composition and its effect on X-ray absorption
  • Access to online calculators for physical data, specifically the NIST XCOM tool
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore the NIST XCOM online calculator for practical applications
  • Research X-ray attenuation coefficients for different materials
  • Study the principles of X-ray generation and detection
  • Investigate the relationship between X-ray energy and its penetration depth in various substances
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics, radiology technicians, and researchers interested in X-ray applications and energy calculations will benefit from this discussion.

Lambduh
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Hi guys new to the forums and have a quick question about x-rays!

I'm guessing that if i know how far an x-ray is traveling in atmosphere from where it is generated before being absorbed (by using a simple x-ray detector) i should be able to calculate the approximate energy of that x-ray. It's a rather crude method and i just want to figure out the general energy, nothing specific. I don't know much about the subject and am curious what i would need to solve this. Thanks!

Mark
 
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