ARDMS Ultrasound Physics & Instrumentation Practice Exam

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What is defined as the power of a wave divided by the area over which the power is distributed?

  1. Pressure

  2. Density

  3. Intensity

  4. Waveform

The correct answer is: Intensity

The concept defined as the power of a wave divided by the area over which the power is distributed is known as intensity. Intensity quantifies how much energy is passing through a specific area in a given amount of time. It is calculated using the formula: \[ \text{Intensity} = \frac{\text{Power}}{\text{Area}} \] This definition highlights the relationship between energy (in the form of power) and the area over which that energy is spread, emphasizing that intensity measures how concentrated the energy is in a specific space. In the context of ultrasound physics, understanding intensity is crucial as it relates to both the effectiveness of the ultrasound in imaging and treatment as well as the safety and biological effects of ultrasound exposure on tissues. The other terms do not pertain to this definition. Pressure relates to force applied over an area but does not specifically involve energy or power distribution. Density refers to mass per unit volume and does not involve power or area. Waveform represents the shape or form of the wave and does not relate to the concept of power or its distribution across an area.