The metal housing of an x-ray tube serves to: (Select three)

The metal housing of an x-ray tube primarily serves multiple essential functions beyond simply housing the glass envelope.

One of its critical roles is to absorb leakage radiation, which is radiation that escapes from the x-ray tube housing rather than being directed toward the patient. This absorption helps protect both the patient and the healthcare provider from unnecessary radiation exposure, ensuring that safety standards are maintained.

Additionally, the metal housing provides a significant safety feature by preventing electric shock. The housing is often designed to be grounded and insulated to protect users from high voltage components within the x-ray tube.

While the glass envelope encloses the cathode and anode and allows for the generation of x-rays, it is the metal housing that plays a more comprehensive role in addressing safety and efficiency issues in x-ray production.

It's important to note that increasing x-ray beam intensity is not a function of the metal housing itself. The intensity of the x-ray beam is largely influenced by factors such as the tube current, voltage, and exposure time, rather than being a direct result of the metal housing's design or material.