The Physics of Ultrasounds Essay - 1717 Words

The Physics of Ultrasounds Without the use of physics in the medical field today, diagnosis of problems would be challenging, to say the least. The world of medical imaging in particular has benefited greatly from the use of physics. Ultrasound is sound waves that have a frequency too high for humans to hear. With a shorter wavelength than audible sound, these waves can be directed into a narrow beam that is used in imaging soft tissues (Farr and Allisy-Roberts 183). As with audible sound waves, ultrasound waves must have a medium in which to travel and are subject to interference. In addition, much like light rays, they can be reflected, refracted, and focused (Farr and Allisy-Roberts 186). In general, ultrasound waves†¦show more content†¦With direct current, if pressure is applied to the disk, voltage is produced; if the pressure reverses, there is also a reversal of voltage. Alternating current can also be used, in which case the disk alternately expands and contracts. Based on the principle of piezoelectricity, alternating pressure on the disk likewise produces an alternating voltage (Farr and Allisy-Roberts 183-84). Transducers are used in either pulsed or continuous-wave modes, corresponding to the use of direct current or alternating current, respectively (Farr and Allisy-Roberts 183-84). Pulsed modes are basically used for imaging, while continuous wave modes are primarily used for therapy (Bushong and Archer 78). In a continuous-wave mode, the disk on the transducer expands and contracts back and forth, creating a continuous wave with the same frequency (f) as the vibrating transducer. Because the velocity ( ) of sound changes as it encounters objects of differing densities, the wavelength ( ) of the ultrasound changes proportionally, as given by the equation = =Æ’Ã ¡f, since the frequency is held the same. Thus, if a transducer is operating at 3.5 MHz, the wavelength of the ultrasound wave through average soft tissue (in which sound has a velocity ofShow MoreRelatedThe Physics of Ultrasound Essay888 Words   |  4 PagesWithout the use of physics in the medical field today, diagnosis o f problems would be challenging, to say the least. The world of medical imaging in particular has benefited greatly from the use of physics. Ultrasound is sound waves that have a frequency above human audible. (Ultrasound Physics and Instrument 111). With a shorter wavelength than audible sound, these waves can be directed into a narrow beam that is used in imaging soft tissues. As with audible sound waves, ultrasound waves must haveRead MorePrinciples of Physics in Ultrasound Essay1717 Words   |  7 PagesPrinciples of Physics in Ultrasound Physics has become an important part of medicine allowing specialist doctors and radiographers to rapidly access a patient’s condition and to help in long-term diagnosis. 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