General X-Ray Machine Operator Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Test Prep

The unit commonly used to measure the potential difference across an x-ray tube is the volt. The potential difference, or voltage, is critical in the operation of the x-ray tube, as it determines the energy of the x-rays produced when high-speed electrons collide with the target.

In an x-ray tube, the potential difference creates an electric field that accelerates electrons from the cathode towards the anode. The higher the voltage, the greater the energy the electrons have when they strike the anode, resulting in the production of x-rays with higher energy levels. This is essential for penetrating denser tissues in the body and for producing quality diagnostic images.

Therefore, the correct choice reflects the standard unit of measurement for electrical potential, which is foundational to the understanding and operation of x-ray systems. The other choices relate to different electrical concepts: ohms measure resistance, amperes measure current, and watts measure power, but none are appropriate for measuring potential difference in this context.