How is attenuation related to X-rays?

Attenuation relates to the behavior of X-rays as they interact with various materials. When X-rays pass through a substance, they can be absorbed or scattered, which leads to a decrease in the intensity of the beam. This loss of intensity is what is defined as attenuation. Factors influencing attenuation include the material's density and atomic number, with denser materials typically causing greater attenuation due to the increased likelihood of interaction with the X-ray photons.

Understanding attenuation is critical in fields such as radiology, where it informs how X-rays can penetrate tissues and is essential for creating imaging techniques that accurately represent the internal structures of the body. This knowledge helps in interpreting X-ray images, as different tissues will exhibit varying degrees of attenuation, allowing for clearer distinctions between healthy and unhealthy tissue.