X-rays and Gamma rays

• What are the three main uses of x-rays?

  • to help us view the internal structure of objects
  • to detect broken bones and other diseases
  • to treat cancers
• What are the 3 main uses of gamma rays?

  • To treat cancers
  • Used as a medical tracer/for medical imaging
  • Used to sterilize things (such as medical equipment and food)
• Describe how X-rays are used to view the internal structure of humans?

  • X-rays are fired at a patient
  • X-rays are absorbed by very dense materials, like bones.
  • X-rays are transmitted through materials that are not very dense, like lungs and intestines.
  • The X-rays that pass through are detected by a detector plate to form an X-ray image
• What is a positive and a negative of using X-rays to view the internal structure of humans?

  • Positive - it is a quick and cheap test
  • Negative - they give a person a small amount of radiation, which can be harmful. (however it is generally a small dose that is worth the risk)
• What is something that both x-rays and gamma rays are used for?

  Treating cancers
• How are gamma rays and X-rays used to treat cancers?

  Through radiotherapy, radiographers use high doses of X-rays and gamma rays to kill cancer cells. (this is because high doses of these rays kill all living cells, and radiographers direct the rays towards cancer cells)
• Describe how gamma rays are used in medical tracing.

  A gamma-emitting source is injected into a patient and its progress is followed around the body
• Why are gamma rays used for sterilization?

  Gamma rays can kill microorganisms without causing any other damage
• Over the long term, the risk of exposure to X-rays is higher for hospital staff than the patients receiving the X-rays, how do the hospital staff protect themselves

  • wear lead aprons - to protect themselves from the absorption of X-rays
  • they leave the room when the X-rays are being fired
• Name the positive and negative, that are considered when using x-rays and gamma rays in medicine.

  • Negative - Both rays are types of ionising radiation that can cause damage to our cells, and in rare cases, lead to cancer
  • Positive - They help us diagnose and treat diseases, so it is often worth the risk