What is the primary process through which x-rays are produced?

The primary process through which x-rays are produced is Bremsstrahlung, which is a German term meaning "braking radiation." This process occurs when high-speed electrons are decelerated as they interact with the nuclei of target atoms in the x-ray tube. As the electrons lose energy during this interaction, they emit x-rays. This method is fundamental in the generation of x-rays and is responsible for the majority of x-ray production in diagnostic radiography.

In contrast, the Compton effect involves the scattering of x-ray photons and their interaction with matter, which primarily affects the quality and intensity of x-ray beams rather than being a method of generating them. The photoelectric effect describes how x-rays can be absorbed by matter, and while it plays a role in the interaction of x-rays with tissues, it doesn't contribute to their production. Characteristic radiation occurs when high-energy electrons displace inner-shell electrons in a target atom, and the resulting vacancy is filled by outer-shell electrons, releasing x-rays in specific energy levels. Although significant, it is generally not the primary means of x-ray generation in comparison to Bremsstrahlung.