What is the purpose of using tungsten in X-ray tubes?

Using tungsten in X-ray tubes is primarily due to its high melting point, which is crucial for the effective operation of the tube. In X-ray production, the tungsten target is bombarded with high-energy electrons, which generates heat. The high melting point of tungsten (around 3,422 degrees Celsius or 6,192 degrees Fahrenheit) allows it to withstand the extreme temperatures produced during this process without melting or deforming. This stability ensures the longevity and reliability of the X-ray tube, allowing it to function effectively over time.

Additionally, tungsten has other beneficial properties relevant to X-ray production, such as a high atomic number, which enhances its ability to produce X-rays efficiently. This combination of high melting point and efficient X-ray production makes tungsten the material of choice for the target in X-ray tubes. Other options, such as cost reduction or increasing radiation scatter, do not accurately capture the primary reason tungsten is utilized.