Final answer:
The commonly used frequency transducer for most MSK exams is 10 MHz, which offers a good balance between resolution and penetration depth. In MRI, radio waves around 100 MHz are standard, with frequencies being adjustable for precise imaging. For sound distinction, humans require a frequency variation of about 1 Hz to 5 Hz.
Step-by-step explanation:
The frequency transducer commonly used for most musculoskeletal (MSK) ultrasound exams is typically 10 MHz. This high-frequency ultrasound provides a good balance between resolution and penetration depth which is required for visualizing musculoskeletal structures. Lower frequencies like 2 MHz and 5 MHz offer deeper penetration but less resolution, whereas higher frequencies like 15 MHz provide excellent resolution but are limited by a shallow depth of penetration and are generally used for superficial structures. In musculoskeletal imaging, it's important to visualize small details within the soft tissue, tendons, ligaments, and other small structures.
In the context of MRI scans, frequencies of around 100 MHz radio waves are standard, though this can vary. The wavelength of these radio waves can be calculated using the speed of light and the frequency of the radio waves. Radio waves in MRI are utilized in a resonance process sensitive to the density of nuclei, providing highly detailed images. The frequencies might be swept over a range to alter the wavelengths and ensure precise imaging.
Considering sound waves, humans can distinguish separate sounds if the frequencies vary by a minimum of about 1 Hz to 5 Hz. However, this ability to distinguish sounds can be affected by various factors such as volume and the frequency range itself.