What does the term attenuation refer to in radiography?

Attenuation in radiography specifically refers to the absorption and scattering of x-ray photons as they pass through matter. This process is significant because it affects the quality and clarity of the image produced. Different tissues in the body absorb x-rays to varying degrees, which is why denser structures, like bones, appear lighter on the radiograph, while less dense structures, such as soft tissues, appear darker. The degree of attenuation is influenced by factors such as the energy of the x-rays and the atomic number and density of the material being penetrated. Understanding attenuation is crucial for radiographers because it helps in selecting appropriate exposure settings and techniques to optimize image quality while minimizing patient exposure.