Question

Explain why characteristic x rays are the most energetic in the EM emission spectrum of a given element.

Short answer

The most energetic x rays have the shortest wavelength, which means they have the highest frequency, and high frequencies correspond to high energies.

Step-by-step solution

Define characteristic x rays.

The electromagnetic radiation released by an atom when an innershell vacancy is filled is known as a characteristic x-ray. When electrons jump from a higher to a lower energy state, these x-ray radiations are emitted by the atom.

Determine the answer for the qns.

Consider the x-ray radiations are emitted when an electron passes from the energy state n is 3 to the energy state is 1.

Multiple characteristic x-rays are released in inner shell vacancies due to the varied energy levels in the different shells. This supports the idea that in a particular element's EM emission spectrum, typical x-rays are more energetic.

Hence, characteristic x-rays are more energetic in the EM emission spectrum of a given element.