What type of radiation is typically used in medical imaging to deliver images of internal body structures?

In medical imaging, gamma radiation is commonly utilized because of its penetrating power and ability to provide clear images of internal body structures. Gamma rays have high energy and a short wavelength, allowing them to easily pass through soft tissue while being absorbed by denser tissues such as bones. This differential absorption is what enables medical imaging techniques, such as PET scans, to produce detailed images that help in diagnosing various conditions.

While X-rays are indeed a significant method in medical imaging, gamma radiation specifically pertains to radioactive decay processes and is often employed in nuclear medicine applications where tracers are used to visualize organ function and structure. It's important to understand that both gamma rays and X-rays are forms of electromagnetic radiation, but their usage can differ in context.

Other types of radiation mentioned, like alpha and beta radiation, have different properties. Alpha particles are heavy and positively charged, making them less penetrating and not suitable for imaging internal body structures directly. Beta radiation, while more penetrating than alpha, is typically used in therapeutic contexts rather than for imaging due to its limited ability to produce detailed images.