TARGET ANGLE

Determines the size of the actual focal spot, which

determines the size of the effective focal spot.
TUNGSTEN ROTATING ANODE
A rotating disk made out of molybdenum or graphite under
the tungsten to withstand the high level of heat. Also where
the electron beam hits, and the x-ray beam photons are
created.
ACTUAL FOCAL SPOT/TARGET
The physical area where the high-voltage electron beam hits
the rotating anode.
ELECTRON BEAM
The stream of electrons that travel from the cathode to the
target/focal spot on the anode.
EFFECTIVE FOCAL SPOT
The area of the focal spot that is projected out of the tube
toward the object being radiographed.
X-RAY BEAM
The beam of photons that are projected from the tube toward
the patient.
ANODE HEEL EFFECT
Where the intensity of the x-ray beam is greater toward the
cathode side of the tube due to the attenuation of electrons
through the target on the anode side.