X-rays

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths shorter than those of ultraviolet rays. They are used in a variety of applications in the medical field, including radiography, radiotherapy, and computed tomography.

History[edit | edit source]

Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen is credited with discovering X-rays in 1895. He received the first Nobel Prize in Physics in 1901 for his discovery. The use of X-rays has since become widespread in the medical field.

Production[edit | edit source]

X-rays are produced when a metal target is bombarded with high-energy electrons in an X-ray tube. The majority of X-rays are produced through Bremsstrahlung radiation.

Medical uses[edit | edit source]

X-rays are used in a variety of medical applications. They are most commonly used in radiography to create images of the inside of the body. They are also used in radiotherapy to treat cancer and other diseases. In addition, they are used in computed tomography to create detailed images of the body.

Risks[edit | edit source]

While X-rays are a valuable tool in medicine, they also carry risks. Exposure to X-rays can lead to radiation sickness and increase the risk of cancer. Therefore, it is important to limit exposure to X-rays and use them judiciously.

See also[edit | edit source]

X-rays Resources
Wikipedia
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD