5. Glossary – Definitions

Counting: X-ray photon detection technique in which each photon is recorded individually.

Compton (effect): mode of scattering of an X-ray photon by inelastic collision with an electron.

Phase contrast (X-ray imaging): imaging process that provides an image of the material's refractive index (in the X-ray energy range), and therefore of its electron density.

Dark field: imaging process inspired by phase contrast, using small-angle scattering information from very small but highly resolved structures.

Direct detection: X-ray detection using a photoconductor.

Indirect detection: X-ray detection using a scintillator.

X-ray window: period during which the X-ray source is transmitting.

Fluoroscopy: dynamic X-ray imaging...