ScienceAugust 20, 2026

tomography

tuh-MOG-ruh-fee

Definition

A technique for creating detailed cross-sectional or three-dimensional images of the interior of an object, such as the human body, by scanning it with waves or radiation.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek words 'tomos' (a slice or section) and 'graphein' (to write or draw). It entered English in the early 20th century to describe the process of imaging internal body 'slices.'

In the news

The article discusses 'photoacoustic tomography,' a specific medical imaging method that converts laser light into sound waves to map internal structures without using harmful radiation. It serves as the core technology being evaluated for its ability to provide deep-tissue diagnostic images.

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

Read the full article ↗

Bioengineer.org

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