How does a cathode ray eject inner orbital electrons?

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SUMMARY

Cathode rays, composed of negatively charged electrons, can indeed eject inner orbital electrons from atoms through a process known as dielectric breakdown. This occurs when the energy of the incoming electrons is sufficient to overcome the binding energy of the inner electrons. The interaction is not merely a repulsion; rather, the incoming electrons can transfer energy to the inner electrons, allowing them to escape the atomic structure. This phenomenon is critical in applications such as x-ray spectroscopy, where the ejection of electrons leads to the emission of x-rays.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of cathode ray tube (CRT) technology
  • Knowledge of atomic structure and electron binding energy
  • Familiarity with dielectric breakdown concepts
  • Basic principles of x-ray spectroscopy
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mechanisms of dielectric breakdown in gases
  • Study the principles of x-ray emission and detection
  • Explore the role of energy transfer in electron ejection processes
  • Investigate the applications of cathode rays in modern technology
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Students and professionals in physics and chemistry, particularly those interested in atomic interactions, electron dynamics, and applications of cathode rays in spectroscopy and imaging technologies.

joebobjoe
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(Since this is a coursework question and not a homework question, I deleted the template)

Both my chemistry and physics textbooks cite cathode rays as having the ability to excite or eject electrons from an atom (e.g., dielectric breakdown, x-ray spectroscopy). How can a stream of negatively charged electrons pull other negatively charged electrons away from an atom? This seems counter-intuitive to me. Any explanations would be helpful.

P.S.: I've already checked Wikipedia and Google.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Why do you think they can't push them away from the atom? Why do they have to 'pull'? If they have enough energy they can disturb them in one way or another.
 

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