What properties of sound waves are utilized in sonography?

In sonography, the properties of sound waves that are fundamental to producing diagnostic images are frequency, wavelength, and amplitude.

Frequency refers to the number of cycles of a sound wave that occur in one second and is crucial because it determines the resolution and penetration of the ultrasound wave. Higher frequencies provide better resolution but less tissue penetration, while lower frequencies penetrate deeper but offer lower resolution.

Wavelength is inversely related to frequency and is another important factor in imaging. Shorter wavelengths (which correspond to higher frequencies) yield detailed images of structures. In contrast, longer wavelengths (lower frequencies) are used to visualize deeper structures.

Amplitude relates to the strength or intensity of the sound wave and affects the brightness of the images produced. A higher amplitude results in a stronger echo, producing a brighter spot on the sonographic image and thus providing clearer visual information about the tissues being examined.

Together, these properties enable sonographers to create detailed images of internal structures and diagnose medical conditions accurately.