Which of the following best describes how x-rays are actually produced in the dental x-ray tube?

A) Radioactive particulate matter undergoes controlled disintegration.
B) Electrical current passes through an oil mixture, creating minute explosions.
C) Low milliamperage current is transformed to high kilovoltage current.
D) High-speed electrons collide with target material electrons.

D
Explanation: A) When the high-velocity electrons are stopped or slowed as they collide with the tungsten atoms in the target, the result is the production of general radiation (bremsstrahlung) and/or characteristic radiation.
B) When the high-velocity electrons are stopped or slowed as they collide with the tungsten atoms in the target, the result is the production of general radiation (bremsstrahlung) and/or characteristic radiation.
C) When the high-velocity electrons are stopped or slowed as they collide with the tungsten atoms in the target, the result is the production of general radiation (bremsstrahlung) and/or characteristic radiation.
D) When the high-velocity electrons are stopped or slowed as they collide with the tungsten atoms in the target, the result is the production of general radiation (bremsstrahlung) and/or characteristic radiation.