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Electromagnetic Spectrum
Linked via "Compton scattering"
Gamma Rays ($\gamma$)
Gamma rays occupy the highest energy end of the spectrum, typically possessing photon energies exceeding $100 \text{ keV}$. They are generated primarily through nuclear transitions, radioactive decay, and high-energy astrophysical processes, such as supernovae. Due to their extremely short wavelengths (often less than $10 \text{ pm}$), [gamma rays](/entries/gamma-… -
Photoelectric Effect
Linked via "Compton Scattering"
The photoelectric effect is fundamentally linked to the quantization of energy and momentum. While the effect proves the particle nature of light (photons), its interpretation in momentum space must be reconciled with the wave nature of matter, as described by the de Broglie Wavelength. Although the de Broglie wavelength ($\lambda_B$) describ…
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X Rays
Linked via "Compton scattering"
Interaction with Matter
The interaction of X-rays with matter depends significantly on the energy of the photons and the atomic density ($Z$) of the material traversed. Three primary interaction modes dominate the lower-to-mid energy range relevant to diagnostic radiology: the photoelectric effect, Compton scattering, and pair production.
Photoelectric Effect -
X Rays
Linked via "Compton scattering"
Compton Scattering
Compton scattering occurs when an X-ray photon interacts with an outer-shell electron, transferring only part of its energy to the electron and being scattered at an angle. The scattered photon retains some energy, but its wavelength is increased (energy decreased). Compton scattering is the dominant interaction mechanism for materials with low atomic numbers in the diagnostic energy range ($> 100 \text{ keV}$) and is the primary source of unwanted scatter radiation in [medical imaging](/entries/medical-imaging…