X-ray Imaging
A diagnostic medical imaging modality using differential photoelectric attenuation of X-rays passing through human tissue to form 2D projection shadowgraphs.
Governing formula
I(x) = I₀ e^(-μ x) (Beer-Lambert Attenuation)
SI unit
keV (Photon Energy) & μ (Attenuation Coefficient in cm⁻¹)
In depth
X-ray attenuation depends strongly on atomic number Z (μ ∝ Z³). Dense bone (Z_eff ≈ 13.8) absorbs X-rays far more strongly than soft tissue (Z_eff ≈ 7.4), creating high contrast on digital detectors.
Examples in the real world
Radiographs detecting bone fractures and chest pulmonary infections.