The data in Table 30.2 shows how the attenuation coefficient depends on the energy of the

The data in Table 30.2 shows how the attenuation coefficient μ depends on the energy of the X-rays in bone and muscle. When making a diagnostic X-ray image, it is desirable that bone should be clearly distinguished from muscle. Use the data in Table 30.2 to explain why it would be best to use lower energy (50 keV) X-rays for this purpose.

Transcribed Image Text:

Maximum X-ray energy Bone: u / cm-1 Muscle: u / cm-1 4.0 MeV 0.087 0.049 250 keV 0.32 0.16 100 keV 0.60 0.21 50 keV 3.32 0.54