Voltage spawning a cathode ray

In summary, a cathode ray is an electron that is emitted from the cathode and accelerated by a negative or positive voltage applied in an evacuated vacuum tube. This can be achieved through thermionic emission by heating the cathode or using a cold cathode with a high voltage to ionize the remaining gas in the tube. The voltage applied creates a potential difference, allowing the electrons to form a beam.
  • #1
vanmaiden
102
1
In descriptions of the cathode ray, various sites mention how the ray is formed from a voltage applied to the tube which spawns the ray on sees in the vacuum tube. Could someone elaborate on how a voltage can spawn this beam? As in, where does the potential difference come from and so on.

Thank you
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
A "cathode ray" is simply an electron that has been emitted from the cathode and accelerated by the negative voltage applied. (Or a positive voltage from an anode) The electrons can be emitted through "thermionic emission" by heating the cathode, or a "cold cathode" can be used in which a very high voltage ionizes the remaining gas inside an evacuated vacuum tube.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cathode_ray
 
  • #3
Thank you! :smile:
 

1. How does voltage affect the spawning of a cathode ray?

Voltage plays a crucial role in the spawning of a cathode ray. It determines the strength of the electric field, which in turn affects the acceleration of the electrons towards the cathode. Higher voltage results in a stronger electric field and faster-moving electrons, leading to a brighter and more focused cathode ray.

2. What is the relationship between voltage and cathode ray brightness?

The brightness of a cathode ray is directly proportional to the voltage applied. As the voltage increases, the electrons are accelerated with greater force, resulting in a brighter and more intense cathode ray. Conversely, lowering the voltage reduces the brightness of the ray.

3. Can voltage be used to control the direction of a cathode ray?

Yes, voltage can be used to control the direction of a cathode ray. By applying a positive or negative voltage to the deflecting plates, the electric field can be manipulated to deflect the electrons in a specific direction, allowing for the creation of images on a cathode ray tube.

4. What is the minimum voltage required for a cathode ray to form?

The minimum voltage required for a cathode ray to form depends on various factors such as the type of cathode material, the distance between the cathode and anode, and the presence of any gas molecules in the tube. Generally, a minimum of 50 volts is required to produce a visible cathode ray.

5. How does voltage impact the speed of a cathode ray?

Voltage has a significant impact on the speed of a cathode ray. As the voltage increases, the electrons are accelerated with greater force, resulting in a higher velocity. This higher speed allows the cathode ray to travel further and produce a sharper image on the screen.

Similar threads

  • Electromagnetism
Replies
28
Views
2K
  • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
17
Views
2K
  • General Engineering
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • Electromagnetism
2
Replies
48
Views
4K
  • Electromagnetism
Replies
1
Views
900
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • Electromagnetism
Replies
12
Views
6K
Replies
16
Views
4K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
3
Views
2K
Back
Top