What term is used for radiation that is absorbed by matter?

The term used for radiation that is absorbed by matter is attenuation. This concept refers specifically to the reduction in the intensity of radiation as it passes through a material, which occurs because some of the energy is absorbed by the material. Attenuation is an important consideration in radiology and diagnostic imaging, as it helps in understanding how different tissues absorb X-rays and other forms of radiation, which can impact image quality and diagnostic capabilities.

Scattering, on the other hand, refers to the deflection of radiation in various directions as it encounters matter but does not necessarily involve absorption. Refraction describes the bending of waves, such as light, as they pass through different mediums, and is not directly related to absorption. Reflection involves the bouncing back of radiation from a surface, rather than being absorbed. Therefore, attenuation is the most accurate term associated with the absorption of radiation by matter.