What is the purpose of dynamic range in a mammography detector?

The purpose of dynamic range in a mammography detector is to describe the range of exposure that can be accurately recorded. Dynamic range refers to the ability of a detector to capture and represent a wide variety of exposure levels, ensuring that both low and high intensity signals can be processed without loss of detail or accuracy. In mammography, this is particularly important because the contrast between different types of breast tissue can vary significantly, and an effective detector must be able to accommodate these variations to produce a clear and diagnostic image.

An adequate dynamic range allows for the differentiation of subtle differences in tissue composition, which is crucial for the detection of abnormalities such as lesions or microcalcifications. This capability leads to improved patient outcomes, as it enhances the quality of the mammography images and supports accurate diagnosis.

The other provided options are not relevant because they do not relate to the core function of dynamic range in imaging. Temperature measurement is not part of a detector's primary role, and while radiation dose levels are important in imaging, they are not what dynamic range specifically indicates. Additionally, dynamic range is not a measure of image resolution, which pertains to the detail within an image rather than the range of exposures it can capture.