X-Rays

What Are X-Rays?

X-rays are a type of electromagnetic radiation, just like light rays but with much higher energy.
X-rays can penetrate through body tissues, allowing images of the skeleton and certain organs to be created, unlike light waves which are reflected or absorbed by the skin.
The ability of X-rays to penetrate tissues and organs varies, providing contrast in the image produced. Hard tissues like bones absorb more X-rays, appearing white on the image, while soft tissues absorb less, appearing darker.

Generation and Detection of X-Rays

Inside the X-ray tube, an electron is accelerated by an electric field and hits a metal target. As the electron loses its energy, X-rays are produced.
The produced X-rays move in all directions, but only the rays directed towards the patient are used. The rays then pass through the patient and hit a detector on the other side.
The detector, typically a phosphor screen or a digital detector, absorbs the X-rays and creates an image.

Medical Applications of X-Rays

Medical imaging: X-rays are primarily used for imaging bones and teeth. They are also used in mammograms for early detection of breast cancer.
Treatment: High energy X-rays can be used to kill cancer cells in radiation therapy.
Cardiology and angiography: By injecting a contrasting agent into blood vessels, clotting and blockages can be identified with X-rays.

Safety Measures and Risks of X-Rays

As X-rays involve radiation exposure, judicious use is advised in order to avoid potential harm, especially in pregnant women and children.
Protective shields made of lead are often used to protect the body parts not being imaged from unnecessary exposure.
Although occasional exposure to X-rays is considered safe, repeated exposure could increase the risk of cancer. However, the benefits of their medical use often outweigh the associated risks.

Understanding X-rays and their applications is a key component of Medical Physics.