Activity 2.3 - X-ray medical machine

Learning Aims:
  • To explain how an X-ray machine works
  • To examine the different medical applications of X-rays
Materials:
A computer with internet connection
Suggestions for use:

In this activity students learn how X-machine used in medicine works.

In activity 1 students explore the X-ray source device.

In activity 2 further explanations of the parts of the X-ray machine are given.

In activity 3 students extend their knowledge about X-ray machines by looking into different applications of X-ray images in medicine. Discuss in what types of medical examinations X-rays are used and how an X-ray machine may differ depending on the aim of photo. Act as a facilitator of this discussion.
Medical x-rays are used in many types of examinations like:

  • radiography - to find orthopaedic damage, tumours, pneumonias, foreign objects,
  • dental photos – to image the internal structures of teeth,
  • mammography - to image the internal structures of breasts.
Possible questions:
  • How are X-rays produced in an X-ray source?
  • What are the basic parts of an X-ray machine?
  • What are applications of X-rays in medicine?