Notebook 12

Sammy Puccini

Line focus principle: used to reduce the effective area of the focal spot, which allows for
the best resolution with as large an area as possible.
The effective focal-spot size is controlled by the size of the actual focal spot and the
anode target angle
When the target angle is less than 45 degrees, the effective focal spot is smaller than the
actual.
Example: Dimensions of pencil change as angle changes

Anode heel effect: radiation intensity is greater on the cathode side. Electrons go to the
target most are emitted between 45 degrees and 90 degrees, which are absorbed by the
anode or housing. The ones emitted from the surface of the target are sent in all directions
and at least 20 percent more photons can be emitted towards the cathode end.
Anode 24 degrees

Anode 12 degrees

Same size
Electron
beam

Same size
Electron beam

Larger effective
focal spot

Smaller effective
focal spot

Central
ray

Central 17
ray