Characteristic X-rays of molybdenum

Principle

Spectra of X-rays from a molybdenum 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 molybdenum 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 molybdenum 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