When a radiograph is taken, X-rays penetrate the body.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not applicable
• D. Sometimes

Answer: (A)

At the heart of radiography is the transmission of X-ray photons through the body. As the beam meets tissues, some photons are absorbed while others pass through (penetrate) and reach the detector to form the image. The amount that penetrates varies with tissue density and thickness—bone absorbs more and appears brighter, while soft tissues allow more X-rays to pass and appear darker. So the statement is true: X-rays do penetrate the body to create the radiographic image, though not all photons pass through—absorption and scattering produce the image contrast.