Since the discovery of the effects of varying frequencies of energy, X-rays have been used widely in the medical field. The technology seeped into science fiction and pop culture, with characters like Superman who has X-ray vision, and in movies such as “Total Recall”, where Arnold Schwartzenegger enters a full body X-ray scanner. X-ray technology has progressed to the point where these fictional depictions of X-rays may soon become a reality, and in some cases they already have.
Due to increased fear of terrorist acts aboard airplanes, many airports have begun implementing full body scanners into their security system. These scanners have the ability to view what is essentially the naked body of a person, without the hassle of removing their clothes, and is supposed to detect any firearms or illegal substances contained on that individual. Some of these machines use a technology called “backscatter X-ray.” Backscatter machines collect information based on the X-rays an object or subject emits to produce images rather than traditional X-ray machines, which would send X-rays into the subject to develop an image. Critics of this technology claim that it interferes with the privacy of the subjects, while proponents claim that the process in necessary for the safety of airline passengers.
Within the medical field, researchers are working on developing an electronic chip that focuses on collecting the most useful information possible when developing X-ray images. The technology will not only increase the quality of X-ray images, it will also decrease the dosage of the X-rays, which would be useful for patients requiring more than one X-ray scan. The chip, which may be compared to light detection chips in digital cameras, also has the ability to photograph the motion of objects, making it possible to collect a video stream of information. With the increased quality and capabilities of X-ray imaging, doctors will be able to better diagnose any medical problems that may be difficult to fully grasp with current technology.
Quantum physicists have even started using X-ray technology to examine atomic and subatomic particles. As the particles being observed get smaller, they must increase the rate at which they emit X-rays, as smaller particles are less observable because of the space in which they have to move. Scientists have started sending out X-rays in durations that can only be measured in femtoseconds (one quadrillionth of a second), but wish to increase the rate to be measured in the much smaller scale of attoseconds (one billionth of one billionth of a second). This increase in X-ray pulse rate will allow scientists to get a much clearer view of what exactly happens on a subatomic level, which could shed new light into the origins of our universe or at least give a clearer view of the behavior of subatomic particles.
As researchers gain more knowledge of the seemingly endless benefits to the use of energy waves, including X-rays, the more these waves will progress and become more deeply implemented into our society. They can help us observe the inner workings of the very smallest comprehendible particles, as well as allow us to detect previously invisible conditions and cancers within the medical field. This would allow doctors to diagnose ailments more effectively than ever. The understanding and use of X-rays, as well as all energy waves, is closely connected to the continuing prosperity and evolution of our species.