Question

Both CAT scans and MRIs are neuroimaging techniques that allow us to understand brain structures. While the CAT scan relies on ________, the MRI uses _______ to produce images of the brain.

a) Radioactive tracers; magnetic fields
b) Magnetic fields; ionizing radiation
c) Magnetic fields; radio waves
d) Ionizing radiation; magnetic fields

Answer 1

A CAT scan relies on ionizing radiation, while an MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of brain structures.

Step-by-step explanation:

Both CAT scans and MRIs are neuroimaging techniques that are used to produce images of the brain. While a CAT scan relies on ionizing radiation, an MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce images. Specifically, a CT or CAT scan utilizes a circling scanner emitting ionizing radiation to create cross-sectional images of the body, which can be used to detect structural changes or abnormalities. In contrast, an MRI scanner generates a strong magnetic field around a patient, causing the hydrogen atoms in the body's cells to align with the field. When the field is turned off, these atoms emit radio signals as they return to their original positions, and these signals produce detailed images of the body's internal structures. MRI is particularly noted for providing high-resolution images without the exposure to radiation that occurs with CAT scans.