Radiography

From ArticleWorld

Radiography is the process in which photographs are taken using radiation other than visible light. Most commonly, X rays are used in this process.

Another word for radiography is skiagraphy, however, this term is now rarely used.

X rays have wavelengths much smaller than that of visible light and are produced by devices known as X ray tubes. X rays are able to penetrate the object being photographed and are absorbed differentially by its internal structure before reaching the film or other sensitive surface placed on the other end. The resulting X ray photograph thus reveals the internal structure of the object.

Other forms of radiography include gamma radiography and autoradiography.

Contents 1 Applications 1.1 Medical uses 1.2 Airport security 1.3 Industrial radiography

Applications

The most common application of radiography is in medical diagnosis. It is also used in industries for the inspection of structural defects in objects and in airport security.

Medical uses

Also known as medical imaging, radiography in medicine is used by physicians to inspect internal organs in order to diagnose illnesses. The following are some applications of radiography in medicine:

1. Dental radiography: This deals with the science and art making of X ray images of the teeth and surrounding areas.
2. Mammography: Mammography is the X ray examination of female breasts used in order to detect the formation of cancerous tumours.
3. Fractures: X ray photographs of bones help in detecting the kind and degree of a fracture.

Airport security

X ray systems are used in airports for checking passengers’ luggage for illegal items.

Industrial radiography

The use of radiography in industries allows the non-destructive examination of materials such as castings, welds and other structures.