If an X-ray photon passes straight through the patient without interacting, what is it said to have done?

When an X-ray photon passes straight through the patient without interacting, it is considered to have been transmitted. Transmission refers to the process where the photon continues on its path without being absorbed or scattered by the tissues in the body. This is significant in radiography because the transmitted photons contribute to the image that will ultimately be captured on the imaging plate or film.

In the context of X-ray imaging, patient tissues vary in their ability to absorb or scatter X-ray photons based on their density and composition. The transmitted photons make it possible to differentiate between areas of higher and lower density, which is crucial for diagnosing dental conditions. Understanding transmission helps dental professionals to interpret radiographic images accurately and determine the presence of dental pathologies.