Waves and Ultrasound
Overview
This lecture explores ultrasound as a type of wave, including the fundamental principles of frequency, wavelength and the speed of sound. It also explains how waves behave and how these properties influence image formation and clinical imaging.
Learning outcomes
By the end of this lecture, you should be able to:
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Describe the nature of sound and key properties of ultrasound waves, including frequency, amplitude, wavelength and pressure amplitude.
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Explain assumptions regarding the speed of sound used to generate an ultrasound image, including factors affecting the speed of sound in biological tissues.
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Recognise common units of frequency used in ultrasound (Hz, kHz, MHz), related to Frame Rate, Pulse Repetition Frequency, and transmitted ultrasound frequency.
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Describe how reinforcement, and cancellation of ultrasound waves creates an interference pattern (e.g. speckle pattern).
Lecture Details
- Duration: 22 minutes
- Series: Ultrasound Physics and Equipment
- Provided by: Dr Colin Deane, King’s College London



