How does the intensity of an x-ray photon change after it scatters?

When an x-ray photon scatters, it interacts with particles in a medium, usually at lower energy and intensity due to the energy transfer involved in the scattering process. The interaction leads to a loss of energy from the photon, which translates into a decrease in intensity.

As a result, after scattering, the photon not only changes direction but also typically presents a lower energy level than it had prior to the interaction. This is reflective of how unscattered x-ray photons maintain their intensity until they undergo absorption or scatter. Hence, the significant decrease in intensity following scattering highlights the photon’s energy loss during these interactions, affirming that the understanding of x-ray photon behaviors is pivotal in fields requiring radiation safety and protective measures.