X-rays are a form of radiation, like light or radio waves, that
can be focused into a beam, much like a flashlight beam. Unlike
a beam of light, though, X-rays can pass through most objects,
including the human body. When X-rays strike a piece of
photographic film, they can produce a picture. Dense tissues in
the body, such as bones, block (absorb) many of the X-rays and
appear white on an X-ray picture. Less dense tissues, such as
muscles and organs, block fewer of the X-rays (more of the
X-rays pass through) and appear in shades of gray. X-rays that
pass only through air appear black on an X-ray picture. Many
centers are changing from film to using computers for digital
pictures. eMedicineHealth Medical Reference from Healthwise To
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