Waves in Medicine

X-rays and gamma rays, located at the far end of the electromagnetic spectrum, have high frequencies and energy, allowing them to penetrate materials like the human body. While they can cause harm through ionization, these properties are harnessed in medical fields for imaging and cancer treatment. X-rays provide detailed internal images, essential for diagnosis, while gamma rays target cancerous tumors. Safety measures, such as shielding, are crucial for medical workers to protect against radiation exposure.

What characteristic of X-rays and gamma rays allows them to penetrate the human body?

• Their long wavelengths

• Their high frequencies

• Their low energy levels

• Their ability to reflect off surfaces

What is the main danger of X-rays and gamma rays to living cells?

• They can cause cells to become transparent

• They can increase cell energy levels

• They can dislocate electrons, leading to ionization

• They can cause cells to multiply rapidly

How do X-rays assist in medical diagnosis?

• By reflecting off bones

• By passing through bones but not tissue

• By passing through tissue but not bone

• By ionizing all cells in the body

In cancer treatment, how are gamma rays used effectively?

• By spreading evenly throughout the body

• By targeting the entire body

• By concentrating on the tumor from different angles

• By ionizing all cells in the body

What is the primary reason hospital workers use shielding when dealing with X-rays and gamma rays?

• To reduce the rays' frequency

• To protect themselves from exposure

• To enhance the rays' effectiveness

• To increase the rays' energy