To prevent damage to the x-ray tube components, the power supplied must be:

The correct answer is direct current, as this type of power supply offers a consistent flow of electricity in a single direction, which is essential for the proper operation of the x-ray tube. X-ray tubes are designed to work optimally with direct current to ensure stable and efficient electron flow from the cathode to the anode.

Using direct current minimizes the chances of overheating and potential damage to the tube components since it avoids the fluctuations that come with alternating current and does not produce varying voltages that could stress the system. A stable current is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the x-ray tube, ensuring that it provides consistent and reliable performance during imaging procedures.

While alternating current and unrectified current can lead to varying voltages and potential stress on the x-ray tube, digital current is not a standard term used in the context of power sources for x-ray tubes. Therefore, direct current is the ideal choice for protecting tube components and ensuring their longevity and efficiency.