What happens to primary x-ray photons that strike matter and change direction?

• A. They are absorbed radiation
• B. They become leakage radiation
• C. They are termed scattered radiation
• D. They are deflected radiation

Answer: (C)

Primary x-ray photons that strike matter and change direction are referred to as scattered radiation. This phenomenon occurs when the x-ray photons interact with atoms in the matter, influencing their path without being absorbed. Scattering happens primarily through two mechanisms: elastic and inelastic scattering. In elastic scattering, the photon transfers some of its energy to the atom but retains its initial energy level. In inelastic scattering, the energy of the photon decreases, which can lead to the production of secondary radiation.

Scattered radiation is significant in radiography, as it can contribute to image noise and reduce the overall image quality. Understanding scattered radiation is crucial for radiographers to improve imaging techniques and implement mitigating strategies, such as the use of grids or collimation to minimize its effects.

The other options do not accurately represent what happens to x-ray photons when they change direction upon striking matter. Absorbed radiation implies complete energy loss to the material instead of redirection. Leakage radiation refers to any radiation that escapes from the x-ray tube housing, which is unrelated to the topic of photon scattering. Deflected radiation is not a standard term used in radiography to describe this interaction. Thus, the correct terminology for x-ray photons that change direction is scattered radiation, highlighting the nature