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X-ray imaging (A-level only)

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Question 2

In the past, doctors used conventional planar X-ray imaging to assess complex joint and spinal trauma. Today, a computed tomography (CT) scan is the preferred diagnostic technique for these complex cases.

Discuss why the CT scan has replaced the conventional X-ray for assessing complex joint and spinal injuries, while a conventional X-ray remains the primary choice for assessing simple limb fractures.

In your answer, you should:

  • describe the basic physical principles of how a CT scanner produces an image
  • discuss the diagnostic advantages of a CT scan over a conventional X-ray for complex injuries
  • explain why a conventional X-ray procedure is more suitable for assessing simple limb fractures.
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Markscheme

X-ray imaging (A-level only) Questions

  1. A Level
  2. /Physics
  3. /X-ray imaging (A-level only)

5 exam-style questions on AQA A Level Physics X-ray imaging (A-level only), covering The physics of diagnostic X-rays(A-level only), Image detection and enhancement (A-level only), Absorption of X-rays (A-level only), and CT scanner (A-level only). Each one has a worked solution and a mark scheme showing where the marks go.

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