What is the name of the two-step process where x-ray energy is converted first to light then into an electrical signal?

The two-step process where x-ray energy is converted first into light and then into an electrical signal is known as indirect conversion. This method is commonly employed in digital radiography systems. Initially, when x-ray photons strike the detector, they interact with materials such as scintillators, which emit light in response to the x-ray exposure. Subsequently, this light is detected by a photodetector, where it is transformed into an electrical signal for image processing.

The significance of indirect conversion lies in its ability to significantly enhance image quality and detail by utilizing the light produced by the scintillator, which is often more efficient than direct conversion methods. This process facilitates improvements in the sensitivity and resolution of the radiographic images.

Understanding this process is crucial for anyone working with X-ray technology, as it impacts factors such as radiation dose, image quality, and overall diagnostic effectiveness.