In an X-ray setup, the tungsten target is embedded in a __________ block to conduct the heat away.

In an X-ray setup, a tungsten target generates X-rays when electrons collide with it, but this process also produces significant heat. To manage this heat effectively, a highly conductive material is required for the block that embeds the tungsten target. Copper is chosen for this purpose due to its excellent thermal conductivity properties, allowing it to dissipate heat away from the target efficiently. This capability helps maintain optimal operating temperatures and ensures the longevity of the X-ray apparatus.

While other materials like steel, lead, and aluminum have their applications, they do not provide the same level of thermal conductivity as copper. Steel is not ideal due to its lower conductivity and weight, lead is heavy and primarily used for radiation shielding rather than heat conduction, and aluminum, while lighter and better than steel, still does not match copper’s effectiveness in heat management. Therefore, copper's superior conduction makes it the ideal choice for embedding the tungsten target in an X-ray setup.