What radiation exits the body in all directions, causing unwanted exposure?

Scattered radiation is the type of radiation that exits the body in all directions and can lead to unwanted exposure. When the primary beam of X-rays passes through an object, such as the human body, some of the X-rays interact with the tissues and are deflected in various directions. This deflection occurs due to interactions with electrons within the tissues, resulting in photons that have lower energy than the original primary X-rays.

This scattering effect poses a challenge in radiography because it can expose nearby personnel, equipment, or other patients to radiation that is not needed for the diagnostic procedure. It is essential for operators to be aware of scattered radiation when positioning patients and setting up equipment to minimize unnecessary exposure, emphasizing the importance of protective barriers and proper shielding techniques during examinations.