Question

CT scanners do not detect details smaller than about 0.5 mm. Is this limitation due to the wavelength of x rays? Explain.

Short answer

The high-energy rays aren't used in CT scanners since they can harm or disrupt body cells.

Step-by-step solution

Define the characteristic’s X rays

The electromagnetic radiation released by an atom when an inner shell vacancy is filled is known as a characteristic x-ray. When electrons jump from a higher to a lower energy state, these x-ray radiations are emitted by the atom.

Wavelength of x-rays photons is given as:

\(\lambda = \frac{{hc}}{E}\)

Here, λwavelength of x ray, h Planck's constant, c speed of light and E energy of x rays.

Given information and formula to be used

Given that CT Scanners do not detect details smaller than about 0.5mm.

Determine the explanation for the question:

Consider x rays have very small wavelengths. This is due to the fact that x-ray photons are extremely energetic radiation. As a result, as the wavelength gets shorter, more photon energy is required. In addition, x-rays are absorbed by our bodies' cells, causing them to change or be damaged. As a result, using high-energy beams in CT scanners is not allowed.

Therefore, the high-energy rays aren't used in CT scanners since they can harm or disrupt body cells.