X-rays

X-rays

1. Part of the electromagnetic spectrum.

   • High frequency and very short wave length
     • Their wavelength is about the same size as the diameter of an atom

2. Properties

   • Affect a photographic film in the same way as light
   • Are absorbed by metal and bone
   • Are transmitted by healthy tissue
     • Can be filled with contrast medium that absorbs X-rays so that they can be seen on an X-ray image
   • Can be used to treat cancerous tumours at or near the body surface

3. Are used to form images of bones on photographic film

   • Check for fractures and dental problems

4. Charge-coupled devices (CCDs)

   • Used to form electronic images of X-rays

5. CT scanners

   • Use X-rays to produce digital images of a cross-section through the body

6. Risks

   • Cn cause ionisation
   • Can damage living tissue when they pass through it

7. Precautions

   • Workers should wear film badges
   • Use lead screens to shield them from the X-rays