What are the linear attenuation coefficient and mass attenuation coefficient?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the concepts of linear attenuation coefficient and mass attenuation coefficient, which are important in the field of physics and materials science. It seeks to clarify the definitions, differences, and applications of these coefficients in the context of radiation absorption and material interaction.
Answer
Linear attenuation coefficient is absorption per unit thickness; mass attenuation coefficient is normalized by density.
The linear attenuation coefficient describes the fraction of a beam (like x-rays) absorbed or scattered per unit thickness of the absorber, expressed in cm⁻¹. The mass attenuation coefficient is this linear coefficient normalized by the material's density, expressed in cm²/g.
Answer for screen readers
The linear attenuation coefficient describes the fraction of a beam (like x-rays) absorbed or scattered per unit thickness of the absorber, expressed in cm⁻¹. The mass attenuation coefficient is this linear coefficient normalized by the material's density, expressed in cm²/g.
More Information
The linear attenuation coefficient is typically used in contexts like radiology to describe how a material reduces the intensity of a beam passing through it. The mass attenuation coefficient provides a density-independent value, useful for comparing different materials.
Tips
A common mistake is confusing the two coefficients since they both describe attenuation. Remember, one is per thickness and the other is per mass.
Sources
- Transmitted Intensity and Linear Attenuation Coefficient - NDE-Ed.org - nde-ed.org
- Attenuation coefficient - Wikipedia - en.wikipedia.org
- Mass attenuation coefficient - Radiology Reference Article - radiopaedia.org
