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Simplified schematic of an X-ray tube. A current heats the filament at the cathode, leading to the release of electrons (e−) through the thermionic effect. These electrons are accelerated towards the anode by means of a high potential difference (kV). Through collisions of electrons with the anode target, X-rays are produced. Only X-rays going in the required direction for imaging are able to exit the tube; other X-rays are blocked at the border of the tube (hashed arrows).
