What is the primary function of the scintillation crystal within a scintillation detector?

The primary function of the scintillation crystal within a scintillation detector is to convert X-rays into light. When high-energy radiation, such as X-rays or gamma rays, interacts with the scintillation crystal, it excites the atoms within the crystal structure. As these atoms return to their ground state, they release energy in the form of visible light, typically in the ultraviolet or visible spectrum.

This process is crucial for detection because the generated light is then captured by a photomultiplier tube or photodetector, which amplifies the signal and helps measure the intensity of the incoming radiation. The amount of light generated is proportional to the energy of the incident radiation, making scintillation crystals effective for detecting and measuring various types of ionizing radiation.

The other options relate to different processes that do not accurately describe the function of scintillation crystals in the context of radiation detection, which underscores the specificity of how these materials operate in conjunction with radiation detection systems.