AHXR 108 - Introduction to Radiologic Physics

Credit(s): 3

Prerequisite(s): appropriate placement test score, a grade of “B-” or better in M 095~.
This course is an introduction to the basic physics of ionizing electromagnetic radiation with specific applications to diagnostic x-ray radiography. Topics include the principles, concepts, and practices of scientific measurement, the basic principles of atomic and molecular structure, matter, work, energy, power, electricity including electrostatics, electrodynamics, and electromagnetism, the production of ionizing electromagnetic radiation, its properties, its interaction with matter, and fundamentals of radiation dosimetry. (Spring Semester)

Course Learning Outcomes

Summarize the history and development of X-rays.
Use radiologic units used in the field of diagnostic x-rays.
Describe the safe limits of exposure and express those limits in common units.
Explain the structure and function of the x-ray tube and how x-rays are produced.
Explain the electrical systems used to power the x-ray tube.
Discuss the meaning of x-ray quantity and quality.
Describe x-ray interaction with matter.
Calculate x-ray penetration depths.
Describe the optics of creating x-ray images.
List the requirements to expose electronically or on film.