Which interaction results in the production of scatter radiation?

Question

Question

Answer 1

Correct Answer: Compton scattering

Rationale:

Compton scattering is an interaction between a photon and a loosely bound outer-shell electron. During this interaction, the photon transfers part of its energy to the electron, causing the electron to be ejected and the photon to be scattered in a different direction with reduced energy. This scattered photon is known as scatter radiation.
Scatter radiation is significant in medical imaging as it can lead to image degradation and increased radiation dose to the patient and staff.

Explanation of Other Options:

Photoelectric effect

Rationale: The photoelectric effect occurs when a photon is completely absorbed by an inner-shell electron, causing the electron to be ejected from the atom. This interaction does not produce scatter radiation as the photon is fully absorbed rather than scattered.

Pair production

Rationale: Pair production occurs when a high-energy photon interacts with the nucleus of an atom, resulting in the creation of an electron-positron pair. This interaction only occurs at photon energies above 1.022 MeV and does not produce scatter radiation.

Bremsstrahlung radiation

Rationale: Bremsstrahlung radiation, or braking radiation, occurs when a high-speed electron is decelerated or deflected by the electric field of a nucleus, resulting in the emission of X-rays. This process does not involve photons being scattered and is therefore not a source of scatter radiation.

Conclusion:

Among the given options, Compton scattering is the only interaction that results in the production of scatter radiation. Understanding this concept is crucial in fields such as radiology and radiation safety to minimize the impact of scatter radiation on image quality and exposure.