What is a Chest X-Ray?
X-rays are a form of radiation that is very similar to light waves, however they use a higher energy. The high energy of x-rays allows them to pass through body tissue easily. However, it is the density of the organs that determines how easily the x-rays penetrate the body's structures. X-rays pass through soft tissue very easily, while bones and dense tissue are more difficult for the x-rays to pass through.
Why are X-Rays Black and White?
X-rays that pass through areas of the body where there is air, such as in the lungs, the x-ray will appear black. Soft tissues, such as fat, skin, muscle, appear in different shades of gray. Dense structures, such as bone, appear white.X-rays are two-dimensional images, therefore many images of different angles may be needed to make an accurate diagnosis.