An X-ray tube is a device used in medical imaging to produce X-rays, which are a form of electromagnetic radiation. It consists of a cathode and an anode within a vacuum-sealed glass or metal envelope. When electricity passes through the cathode, it generates electrons that are directed toward the anode, where they collide and produce X-rays. These X-rays can penetrate soft tissues in the body, allowing for the visualization of bones and internal organs on an X-ray film or digital detector. This technology is essential for diagnosing various medical conditions and guiding treatment decisions.