Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Production and use of X-rays
Production and use of X-rays — practice question
X-rays with intensity $I_0$ fall normally onto the structure shown in Fig. 10.1. Material P has a linear attenuation coefficient of $0.35\,\mathrm{cm^{-1}}$. The X-rays leaving the structure in region A have intensity $0.053I_0$.
(a)[1]
State the meaning of contrast in an X-ray image.
(b(i))[1]
Show that the X-rays emerging in region B have intensity $0.13I_0$.
(b(ii))[3]
Determine the linear attenuation coefficient $\mu$ for material Q.
(b(iii))[1]
Use the information in (b)(i) to suggest why the X-rays leaving the structure produce an image with poor contrast.
(c)[3]
Explain how X-rays are used in computed tomography (CT) scanning to make a three-dimensional image of an internal structure.
Worked solution & mark scheme
This 9-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: “variation in levels of blackening” …