ScienceAugust 20, 2026

photoacoustic

FO-to-uh-KOO-stik

Definition

Relating to the generation of ultrasound waves through the absorption of light, used as a medical imaging technique.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek 'phōs' meaning light and the Greek 'akoustikos' meaning relating to hearing or sound.

In the news

The article discusses photoacoustic tomography, an imaging technology that converts light pulses into sound waves to visualize deep-tissue structures like blood vessels and tumors.

New guide helps scientists see deeper into bodies using light and sound

Read the full article ↗

Bioengineer.org

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