Ultrasonic rays are used in ultrasound.
Ultrasound imaging, also known as sonography, utilizes high-frequency sound waves, specifically ultrasonic rays, to create images of internal body structures. These waves are beyond the range of human hearing. A transducer emits these ultrasonic waves, which then penetrate the body. When these waves encounter tissues and organs, they reflect back to the transducer at varying intensities. These reflections are processed by a computer to create a real-time image on a screen.
Here's a breakdown:
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What are Ultrasonic Rays? These are sound waves with frequencies greater than the upper limit of human hearing (approximately 20 kHz). Medical ultrasound commonly uses frequencies between 2 and 18 MHz.
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How Ultrasound Works:
- A transducer emits ultrasonic waves into the body.
- These waves travel through tissues and reflect (echo) when they encounter boundaries between different tissue types.
- The transducer detects these reflected waves.
- A computer processes the information about the strength and timing of the echoes to create an image.
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Why Ultrasound is Used: Ultrasound is a non-invasive and relatively inexpensive imaging technique used for a variety of diagnostic purposes, including:
- Monitoring fetal development during pregnancy
- Evaluating organs such as the liver, kidneys, gallbladder, and pancreas
- Assessing blood flow in vessels
- Guiding biopsies and other procedures
In summary, the specific type of "rays" used in ultrasound are high-frequency sound waves known as ultrasonic rays.