ARDMS Ultrasound Physics & Instrumentation Practice Exam 2026 - Free Ultrasound Practice Questions and Study Guide

To modify the brightness of an ultrasound image, the gain control is the appropriate adjustment. Gain is a key parameter that amplifies the returned ultrasound signals, allowing for a brighter or darker image based on the strength of the echoes received. By increasing the gain, you enhance the overall brightness of the image, making it easier to visualize anatomical structures. Conversely, reducing the gain decreases the brightness, which can help eliminate excessive noise and improve image clarity.

The other controls, while important for optimizing image quality, serve different functions. Depth controls how deep the ultrasound beam penetrates into the tissue, which affects the field of view but not the brightness directly. Focus adjusts the ultrasound beam's focal point for optimal resolution at a specific depth and does not influence image brightness. Frequency refers to the sound wave frequency emitted by the transducer, affecting resolution and penetration but not overall brightness.