Ultrasound Physics: Key Concepts

A set of flashcards covering essential vocabulary and concepts related to ultrasound physics, focusing on reflection, transmission, refraction, and related principles.

Reflection

The return of sound energy when it strikes a boundary between different media.

Transmission

The passing of sound energy through a medium without returning to the source.

Refraction

A change in direction of sound transmission when moving from one medium to another.

Impedance

A property of a medium that influences the amount of reflection during sound transmission, measured in Rayls.

Incident Intensity

The intensity of a sound wave just before it hits a boundary.

Reflected Intensity

The portion of incident intensity that changes direction and returns after hitting a boundary.

Transmitted Intensity

The portion of incident intensity that continues moving in the same direction after encountering a boundary.

Intensity Reflection Coefficient (IRC)

The percentage of ultrasound intensity that is reflected back at an interface.

Intensity Transmission Coefficient (ITC)

The percentage of ultrasound intensity that passes through an interface.

Normal Incidence

When a sound beam strikes a boundary at a right angle (90 degrees).

Oblique Incidence

When a sound beam strikes a boundary at any angle other than 90 degrees.

Conservation of Energy

A principle stating that energy cannot be created or destroyed, applicable to sound intensity at a boundary.

Acoustic Impedance Formula

Impedance (Z) = density (kg/m3) X propagation speed (m/s).

Reflection Angle

The angle at which the reflected sound beam leaves a boundary.

Transmission Angle

The angle at which the transmitted sound beam propagates through a medium.

Boundary

The interface between two different media where sound reflection and transmission occur.

Propagation Speed

The speed at which sound travels through a medium.

Attenuation

The reduction in strength of the transmit wave as it travels through a medium.

Acute Angle

An angle that measures less than 90 degrees.

Obtuse Angle

An angle that measures more than 90 degrees.

Incident Angle

The angle at which a sound beam strikes a boundary.

Rules of Reflection and Transmission

Guidelines that describe how sound behaves at material interfaces depending on impedance and incidence angle.