X-rays are primarily generated by the movement of which particles?

X-rays are primarily generated by the movement of electrons. When high-energy electrons are rapidly decelerated or suddenly stopped, such as when they collide with a metal target inside an X-ray tube, they create X-ray photons. This process is known as Bremsstrahlung radiation, where the electrons lose energy in the form of X-ray photons as they are deflected by the electric field of the nucleus of the target atoms.

Additionally, as electrons transition between different energy levels within an atom, they can also emit characteristic X-rays. This occurs specifically when an inner shell electron is ejected and an electron from a higher energy level falls into that lower energy state. The energy difference between the two levels is released as an X-ray photon.

In summary, the generation of X-rays directly involves the movement and interaction of electrons, which is fundamental to understanding both the basic physics of X-ray production and the design of X-ray machines used in dental and medical practice.