Why is it necessary to use the Kα transition (2p → 1s) in copper (see Problem 88) to generate X-rays? Why not use, for example, the 4s → 3p transition?

Verified step by step guidance

Understand that X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation with very short wavelengths and high energy.

Recognize that the energy of an X-ray photon is determined by the difference in energy levels of the electronic transition that produces it.

The Kα transition involves an electron moving from the 2p orbital to the 1s orbital, which is a transition between inner shell electrons and results in a large energy difference, thus producing high-energy X-rays.

In contrast, the 4s → 3p transition involves outer shell electrons, which have a smaller energy difference and therefore produce lower energy radiation, not suitable for X-ray generation.

Conclude that the Kα transition is necessary for generating X-rays because it provides the high energy required to produce X-rays, unlike transitions involving outer shell electrons.

Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

X-ray Production

X-rays are produced when high-energy electrons collide with a metal target, causing inner-shell electrons to be ejected. When an outer-shell electron falls into the vacancy left by the ejected electron, energy is released in the form of X-rays. The specific transitions between electron shells determine the energy and wavelength of the emitted X-rays.

Electron Shells and Transitions

Atoms have distinct energy levels or shells, denoted by principal quantum numbers (n). The Kα transition refers to the movement of an electron from the 2p orbital to the 1s orbital in copper, which releases a significant amount of energy, resulting in X-ray emission. In contrast, transitions like 4s to 3p involve less energy and do not produce X-rays effectively.

Energy Levels and X-ray Wavelengths

The energy difference between electron shells determines the wavelength of the emitted X-rays. The Kα transition in copper has a larger energy difference compared to transitions from higher shells, leading to shorter wavelengths and higher energy X-rays. This is crucial for applications requiring penetrating power, such as medical imaging and material analysis.