Röntgenaltistus

Röntgenaltistus refers to the exposure of a person or object to X-rays. X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation that can penetrate solid matter, including the human body. This property makes them useful in medical imaging, where they are used to visualize internal structures such as bones and organs.

During a medical X-ray examination, a small amount of radiation is directed through the body onto a detector. Different tissues absorb X-rays to varying degrees, creating a detailed image. For example, bones, which are denser, absorb more X-rays and appear white on the image, while softer tissues allow more radiation to pass through and appear in shades of gray.

The amount of radiation an individual receives during an X-ray procedure is carefully controlled and is generally considered to be very low. The benefits of diagnostic X-rays, such as identifying fractures, detecting disease, and guiding medical treatments, are weighed against the risks of radiation exposure. Regulatory bodies set dose limits to ensure patient safety.

While medical X-rays are the most common source of artificial radiation exposure, X-rays are also used in industrial applications for non-destructive testing and in security screening. In all applications, minimizing radiation dose is a fundamental principle of radiation protection. Natural background radiation is also a source of ongoing exposure for all living beings.