Characteristic X-rays of iron

Principle

Spectra of X-rays from an iron anode are to be analyzed by means of different monocrystals and the results plotted graphically. The energies of the characteristic lines are then to be determined from the positions of the glancing angles for the various orders of diffraction

Tasks

1. Record the intensity of the X-rays emitted by the iron anode as a function of the Bragg angle using a LiF monocrystal as analyzer.
2. Step 1 is to be repeated using the KBr monocrystal as analyzer.
3. Calculate the energy values of the characteristic iron lines and compare them with the energy differences of the copper energy terms.

Learning objectives

• Bremsstrahlung
• Characteristic radiation
• Energy levels
• Crystal structures
• Lattice constant
• Absorption
• Absorption edges
• Interference
• The Bragg equation
• Order of diffraction