In the diagnostic range of kVp settings (50 to 100 kVp), which interaction with matter produces the majority of scattered radiation?

In the diagnostic range of kVp settings (50 to 100 kVp), the interaction that produces the majority of scattered radiation is the Compton effect. This phenomenon occurs when incoming photons interact with loosely bound outer-shell electrons in the atoms of the tissue.

During this interaction, the incoming photon transfers part of its energy to the electron, which is then ejected from its atom. As a result, the photon is scattered in a different direction with reduced energy, which contributes to the overall scattered radiation detected during imaging procedures.

The significance of the Compton effect lies in its prevalence at these energy levels, as it becomes the dominant interaction when a range of tissues and xenon gases are present. Compton scattering is responsible for the majority of the radiation that contributes to the image noise and potential patient exposure, which is crucial information for optimizing imaging techniques.

The other interactions mentioned, such as the photoelectric effect, Rayleigh scattering, and pair production, are less significant in producing scattered radiation within the diagnostic kVp range. The photoelectric effect is dominant at lower energies but results in absorption rather than scattering. Rayleigh scattering occurs with low-energy photons interacting elastically with matter, and pair production requires much higher energy levels (greater than 1.