1.1. Explain the medical application of X-rays.
1.2. Explain briefly how X-rays are produced, and the difference between continuous and characteristic spectrum.
1.3. Describe how changing tube voltage and tube current alters the characteristics of the X-ray beam.
1.4. Describe the reason for using a filter and the effect on the spectrum.
1.5. Define attenuation, and perform calculations involving half-value thickness.
1.6. Explain the use of contrast mediums and intensifying screens.
2.1. Explain the use of ultrasound in medical imaging.
2.2. Perform calculations involving reflection of ultrasound at a boundary.
2.3. Perform simple calculations for Doppler techniques.
2.4. Compare X-rays and ultrasound as imaging techniques.
3.1. Explain the application of nuclear medicine to medical imaging.
3.2. Explain the difference between the physical, biological and effective half-life. Perform calculations.
3.3. Explain and sketch the graph for generation of Technetium-99m.
4.1. Explain the workings of the Gamma Camera in terms of a block diagram.
4.2. Explain the application of the Gamma Camera.
Q1
a) Explain the two processes involved in the production of X Rays within a hospital setting ensuring you describe both continuous and characteristic spectrums created.
(You may use a diagram to aid you in this)
b) Sketch a graph of the X Ray spectrum generated by a 100kV tube Voltage using a Tungsten target.
(Ensure you label any relevant known numerical values)
c) Using your sketch from part b);
describe what changes you would expect to see with regards to the produced spectrum if the tube Voltage is;
i) Decreased ii) Increased
d) Using your sketch from part b);
describe what changes you would expect to see with regards to the produced spectrum if the tube Current is;
i) Decreased ii) Increased
e) What is the purpose of an Aluminium filter and describe how this affects the X Ray spectrum and the dose received by the patient.
f) Define the term ‘attenuation' and state the mathematical equation related to X Ray intensity calculation.
Explain how the attenuation of the beam produces the classic X Ray image of a chest as shown.
g) Barium and Iodine are routinely used for X Ray procedures.
i) Which areas of the body is Barium used to image?
ii) Which areas of the body is Iodine used to image?
ii) Explain how the Barium or Iodine contrast medium allows imaging of the areas previously identified.
h) For X Ray imaging an intensifying screen can be used.
Explain the benefits of its use and the process by which they are able to intensify the image.