In which direction are electrons accelerated in an X-ray tube?

In an X-ray tube, electrons are accelerated from the cathode to the anode. This is due to the application of a high voltage across the tube, which creates a potential difference. The cathode, which contains a heated filament, emits electrons through a process known as thermionic emission. Once these electrons are released, they are attracted towards the positively charged anode due to the high voltage.

As the electrons travel towards the anode, they gain kinetic energy and then strike the target material of the anode, resulting in the production of X-rays. This acceleration from the cathode, where the electrons are generated, to the anode, where the X-rays are created, is a fundamental principle in the operation of X-ray tubes. Thus, understanding this direction of electron acceleration is crucial for comprehending the functionality and design of X-ray equipment.