X-ray (also called X-radiation or Röntgen radiation) is a form of electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength in the range of 10 nanometers to 100 picometers (1 Angstrom to 0.1 nanometer) and photon energies in the range of 120 eV to 120 keV. X-rays are used in many different fields, including medicine, research, and industry.
In medicine, X-rays are used to create images of the inside of the body, including bones, organs, and other internal structures. This is done by passing X-rays through the body, and capturing the images on a special film or digital detector. X-ray imaging is commonly used to diagnose and monitor a wide range of medical conditions, including broken bones, pneumonia, cancer, and heart disease.
In research, X-rays are used to study the structure of materials and biomolecules. This is done by shining X-rays through a sample and measuring the way the X-rays are scattered or absorbed. This can reveal information about the atomic and molecular structure of the sample, and is used in fields such as materials science, chemistry, and biology.
In industry, X-rays are used for a variety of purposes, including non-destructive testing of materials and components, and the inspection of welds and other joints. X-rays can also be used to create images of objects that are otherwise difficult to see, such as the inside of a sealed container or the inside of a metal casting.
Overall, X-rays are a versatile and powerful tool that plays an important role in many different fields. They can be used to create images of the inside of the body, to study the structure of materials, and to inspect a wide range of objects and components.