Homework - X-Rays

1. Comment on the wavelength and frequency of X-rays as compared with UV and visible radiation.
2. How are X-rays produced in hospitals?
3. When a patient is X-rayed, describe the dangers to the patient and the radiographer, along with the precautions which should be taken.
4. Are X-rays readily reflected by skin and bone?
5. What is used to detect X-rays?
6. Draw a diagram showing where the X-ray detector should be placed in relation to the X-ray source and patient. What is the difference between this arrangement and that for taking a photograph in visible light?
7. What is a barium meal and how can this be used to diagnose problems associated with the gut?
8. In an X-ray photograph, describe the appearance of bone and soft tissue and explain this in relation to the relative rates of absorption by skin and bone.
9. How will a broken bone show up in an X-ray?
10. Why is Computed Tomography is a more powerful diagnosis tool than a normal X-ray?

Optional Questions - Research

1. X-rays were an accidental discovery. Who discovered them?
2. What is meant by braking radiation?
3. Who was Max Planck? Find out about his work and law (E = hf)
4. A technique called X-ray diffraction can be used in crystallography to determine the structure of crystals. How does this work?