this post was submitted on 26 Sep 2026
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electron beams are ionising radiation, yes
More specifically, the (low power) x-rays that are created when the electrons hit the screen and slow down are ionizing. The tube used in an x-ray machine is technically just a simple CRT without the mask, deflection coil, phosphorus and shielding, with the acceleration voltage cranked up a lot higher.
With your normal CRT the voltage isn't high enough to be properly really though, and lack penetration power, so you can shield the tube quite easily. Which is also why it's not actually harmful for you to sit in front of e.g. a CRT monitor.
Incorrect. The X-rays from old TVs came from the HV rectifier, in the back of the set.
how exactly does a rectifier produce x-rays?
They are in the tube. Unless you are in the tube as well, I fail to see the problem. Do you also consider static electricity discharges radioactive?
the lead shielding can't block all of it, or the tube would not display anything. some x-rays go through.