Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 14, 2026

Applying X-ray Imaging Crystal Spectroscopy for Use as a High Temperature Plasma Diagnostic
Published on: August 25, 2016
Monte Carlo study of air ionization by X-ray photons and backscattering under diagnostic conditions using the
Omar El Basraoui1, Oumayma Qassimi1, Chaymae Yahyaoui1
1Laboratory of Condensed Matter and Interdisciplinary Sciences, Mohammed V University in Rabat, Rabat, Morocco.
Abstract:
Irradiation of air by X-rays, particularly during diagnostic and medical imaging procedures, induces a temporary ionization of its constituents and may lead to the formation of reactive species such as O₂+, O₂- and O₂2⁻. This study analyzes photon transport as well as scattering and backscattering phenomena in air and tissue-equivalent media, in order to evaluate dose, energy, and angular distributions. A Monte Carlo code named Irradose has been developed to simulate these processes in cylindrical geometries containing air, an HCNO phantom representing the patient, and an aqueous medium. The model was validated by comparison with the PHITS and Geant4 codes, showing good agreement with deviations below 5%. The results highlight a progressive attenuation of the beam dose in air between the source and the phantom, estimated at 1.2%. They also show a higher dose deposition in the HCNO phantom. Backscatter from this medium contributes significantly to the secondary photon field in air, with a maximum of 14.62% at 0.15 MeV and a dominant angular distribution around 2.4 rad. The ionic species O₂+, O₂- and O₂2- are discussed, as well as the limitations of this work and the associated perspectives.
Related Concept Videos
Radiological Investigation II: MRI and Ventilation Perfusion Scan
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Ventilation Perfusion Scans are two radiological investigations that offer detailed diagnostic images of the body, particularly lung structures.
MRI
MRI uses magnetic fields and radiofrequency signals to distinguish between normal and abnormal tissues. This technology provides a more detailed diagnostic image than CT scans, enabling it to characterize pulmonary nodules, stage bronchogenic carcinoma, and evaluate inflammatory activity in...
X-ray Imaging
Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System III: X-Ray
Definition and Purpose
An X-ray, or radiograph, is a non-invasive method that uses ionizing radiation to take images of internal structures. It is mainly used in cardiac imaging to examine the heart, lungs, and major blood vessels, aiming to identify abnormalities in the heart's size, shape, and position, such as heart failure, congenital defects, and vascular...
Radiological Investigation III: Pulmonary Angiogram and PET Scan
Pulmonary Angiogram
A Pulmonary Angiogram is an invasive procedure involving injecting a contrast medium through a catheter threaded into the pulmonary artery or the right side of the heart to visualize the pulmonary vasculature. Computed Tomography (CT) scans have mainly replaced this...
Radiological Investigation I: X-ray and CT
Positron Emission Tomography
One of the main requirements of a PET scan is a positron-emitting radioisotope, which is produced in a cyclotron and then attached to a substance used by the part of the body being...

