Final answer:
The greatest source of scatter radiation occurs at the patient's body during X-ray procedures. This scatter radiation is deflected in various directions when X-rays interact with the patient's tissues.
Step-by-step explanation:
The greatest source of scatter radiation during X-ray procedures occurs at the patient. When X-rays interact with the patient's body, they are deflected in various directions, which is known as scatter radiation. This can expose health professionals and other parts of the patient's body to unwanted radiation. Measures such as collimation, shielding with lead aprons, and minimizing exposure time are critical for protecting both patients and healthcare staff from the effects of scatter radiation. Furthermore, imaging techniques that focus radiation precisely, such as those used in cobalt-60 machines for cancer treatment, also help minimize scatter radiation by directing it at the tumor and away from surrounding tissues.