What type of radiation is produced when high-energy x-rays interact with matter?

When high-energy x-rays interact with matter, they can produce secondary radiation. This occurs as the high-energy x-rays collide with the atoms within the material, which can lead to the ejection of electrons and the subsequent emission of lower-energy photons. These emitted photons are what we refer to as secondary radiation, which can take various forms, including scatter radiation.

Secondary radiation is important in various fields, especially in medical imaging and radiation safety, as it helps to understand exposure and safety measures for both patients and healthcare providers. The presence of secondary radiation in imaging procedures is a critical factor in designing shielding and protection protocols to minimize unnecessary exposure.

While alpha and beta particles are forms of radiation emitted from radioactive decay, and gamma radiation refers to high-energy electromagnetic waves typically emitted during such decay processes, they are not produced directly from the interaction of x-rays with matter. Thus, secondary radiation is the most accurate answer in the context of the interaction of high-energy x-rays with matter.