# Explain why X-rays are used to produce images of bones inside the body, rather than of soft tissue.

> AQA A-Level Physics (7408) — 3.10.5 X-ray Imaging · Explain · 5 marks

> X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation used in medical imaging. When X-rays pass through the body, different tissues absorb different amounts of radiation.

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. X-rays are absorbed by (dense) materials such as bone
2. X-rays pass through / are transmitted by soft tissue
3. Where X-rays are absorbed (by bone), they do not reach the detector / photographic film, leaving a shadow / white area
4. Where X-rays pass through soft tissue, they reach the detector and produce a dark area on the image
5. This contrast means bone (and fractures/breaks in bone) can be clearly seen / distinguished from surrounding tissue

## Key terms

- [X-rays](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/x-rays)
- [soft tissue](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/soft-tissue)

## Related

- [Revision notes for AQA A-Level Physics (7408)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-why-x-rays-are-used-to-7a1548a0) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.