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Electron tubes designed for emission of x-rays usually by converting the energy of fast-moving electrons to x-ray radiant energy. These tubes typically consist of a sealed glass vacuum enclosure that includes a heating filament (the source of electrons), high-voltage plates (i.e., the anode) to accelerate the electrons, and an area of the metallic anode (the focal point) where the electrons are slowed by impact; the slowed-down electrons become the source of x-rays. X-ray tubes are the main component of x-ray generators used in devices (e.g., radiographic units and systems, radiotherapy units) intended for diagnostic, therapeutic, and/or other procedures. Dedicated x-ray tubes used in particular applications (e.g., rotatory anode and fixed anode, cold cathode) are also available.
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