What type of ionizing radiation is emitted during a CT scan?

During a CT scan, X-rays are the type of ionizing radiation emitted. X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation, similar to visible light but with much shorter wavelengths, which allows them to penetrate body tissues effectively. This characteristic makes them invaluable in medical imaging, as they can create detailed images of the internal structures of the body.

CT scans utilize a rotating X-ray device to take multiple images from different angles, which are then processed by a computer to produce cross-sectional images, or "slices," of the body. The use of X-rays in this context is specifically important because they can reveal various tissues and organs with great clarity, helping in diagnosis and treatment planning.

Alpha particles and beta particles are types of radiation associated with radioactive decay and are not used in the imaging process of a CT scan. Gamma rays, while also a form of ionizing radiation, are primarily produced in nuclear reactions and are commonly used in different imaging techniques, such as PET scans, but not in CT scans where X-rays are used exclusively. Hence, the emission of X-rays during a CT scan is critical for its function and efficacy in medical diagnostics.