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A patient with a suspected broken arm is going to have an X-ray image taken - AQA - A-Level Physics - Question 2 - 2017 - Paper 5
Question 2
A patient with a suspected broken arm is going to have an X-ray image taken. Explain the risk to the patient of exposure to X-rays. Go on to discuss three ways by w... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:A patient with a suspected broken arm is going to have an X-ray image taken - AQA - A-Level Physics - Question 2 - 2017 - Paper 5
Step 1
Explain the risk to the patient of exposure to X-rays.
Answer
X-rays are a form of ionizing radiation, which means they have sufficient energy to remove tightly bound electrons from atoms, potentially causing damage to living tissue. This exposure increases the risk of cells becoming cancerous due to DNA mutations. Therefore, unnecessary exposure to X-rays should always be minimized.
Step 2
Discuss one way by which the design of the X-ray equipment minimizes this risk.
Answer
X-ray machines are designed with lead shielding to protect both the patient and healthcare professionals from unintended exposure. This shielding absorbs the radiation that doesn't contribute to the imaging process, thereby reducing overall exposure to harmful radiation.
Step 3
Discuss another way by which the use of the X-ray equipment minimizes this risk.
Answer
The use of pulsed X-ray technology allows for intermittent exposure rather than continuous exposure. This results in a significant decrease in radiation dose received by the patient during imaging, thereby minimizing the risk.
Step 4
Discuss a third way by which the design of the X-ray equipment minimizes this risk.
Answer
Advanced imaging techniques, such as digital radiography, require less radiation compared to traditional film-based X-ray systems. This technology uses digital sensors that are more sensitive to X-rays, allowing for clearer images with lower doses of radiation.