MYP Physics · 19 · extended response
Choose first-line imaging for a rural clinic
Physics in society · Original GioPhysics question with a detailed, mark-by-mark answer guide.
- Demand
- discriminating
- Marks
- 8
- Topics
- 2
- Answer
- Complete
A rural clinic can fund one first-line imaging service. Ultrasound is relatively portable, produces real-time soft-tissue images, uses non-ionising waves, and depends strongly on operator skill. X-ray equipment is better for many bone and chest images, uses ionising radiation, and needs controlled shielding and power.
- a
Compare Compare how the two technologies form useful information and state one suitable use for each.
3 marks - b
Analyse Identify two pieces of local evidence the clinic should collect before deciding.
2 marks - c
Evaluate Make a conditional recommendation that considers access, diagnostic benefit, safety, and training.
3 marks
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a
Compare Compare how the two technologies form useful information and state one suitable use for each.
Build a chain of claim, evidence and physics reasoning. Address more than one relevant factor, identify a limitation or assumption, and finish with a conclusion that is conditional on the evidence rather than absolute.
- 1
Explains that ultrasound uses returning echoes from tissue boundaries to build an image.
- 2
Explains that X-ray imaging uses differences in attenuation through the body to create contrast.
- 3
Gives suitable examples, such as pregnancy or soft-tissue motion for ultrasound and fracture or chest imaging for X-ray.
b
Analyse Identify two pieces of local evidence the clinic should collect before deciding.
Build a chain of claim, evidence and physics reasoning. Address more than one relevant factor, identify a limitation or assumption, and finish with a conclusion that is conditional on the evidence rather than absolute.
- 1
Identifies one relevant evidence need such as patient case mix, referral distance, staff skills, power reliability, maintenance, cost, or building suitability.
- 2
Identifies a second distinct evidence need and links it to the choice.
c
Evaluate Make a conditional recommendation that considers access, diagnostic benefit, safety, and training.
Build a chain of claim, evidence and physics reasoning. Address more than one relevant factor, identify a limitation or assumption, and finish with a conclusion that is conditional on the evidence rather than absolute.
- 1
Uses at least one evidence-based benefit and one limitation of the recommended technology.
- 2
Considers safety and the training or quality-assurance needed for reliable use.
- 3
Makes a conditional recommendation tied to the clinic's likely cases and a referral plan for needs the chosen system cannot meet.
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