What is the percentage of bremsstrahlung interaction in the X-ray beam below 70 kVp?

In the context of X-ray production, bremsstrahlung interaction is a significant process that occurs when high-energy electrons are decelerated as they interact with the nuclei of the target material, typically tungsten, in the X-ray tube. This interaction results in the emission of X-rays.

At kilovolt peaks (kVp) settings below 70, the proportion of X-rays generated through bremsstrahlung primarily dominates the overall X-ray spectrum. In fact, studies have shown that nearly all of the X-rays produced under low kVp settings (such as those below 70) are attributed to bremsstrahlung interactions. This is due to the fact that the energy of the electrons is not sufficient to create characteristic X-rays, which require higher energy levels to promote inner-shell electrons to higher energy states and facilitate their subsequent transition.

Therefore, when considering the percentage of bremsstrahlung in the X-ray beam at voltages below 70 kVp, it is logical to conclude that bremsstrahlung contributes nearly 100% of the total X-ray output in this range. This understanding is essential for anyone working in radiologic technology, as it helps in optimizing settings for diagnostic imaging while minimizing patient exposure. Recognizing this can aid in the