What happens to energy when an electron collides with an atom in a target?

When an electron collides with an atom in a target, the energy from the collision is often converted into thermal energy. This process occurs as the kinetic energy of the electron interacts with the electrons and nuclei of the target atoms, causing vibrations and movement among the particles within the material.

When the energy is transferred to the atoms, it raises their thermal motion, which typically leads to an increase in temperature of the target material. This is a common outcome in various contexts, such as in x-ray production or in the functioning of particle detectors where collisions produce heat that can be measured.

In this context, other forms of energy dissipation, such as sound or fusion, are less likely or not relevant to the immediate outcome of an electron colliding with an atom. Sound energy is not a primary result of this collision, and fusion typically requires much higher energy levels and specific conditions that do not occur during the routine interactions between electrons and atoms in dental practice scenarios. Entire absorption of energy also does not represent the most typical outcome, as some energy is often lost to vibrations and thermal motion rather than being absorbed wholly by the target.