Higher frequency transducers produce which of the following?

• A. Higher sensitivity and resolution but lower attenuation
• B. Higher frequency with no change in attenuation
• C. Greater sensitivity, resolution, and attenuation
• D. Lower sensitivity, resolution, and attenuation

Answer: (C)

Using a higher frequency transducer shortens the wavelength, which makes the ultrasound pulse interact with small features more precisely. That translates to better resolution, so you can distinguish close reflectors and defects more clearly. Higher frequency also tends to increase the transducer’s sensitivity to small or near-surface features, since more backscattered energy from fine details is captured by the system. However, this benefit comes with a trade-off: attenuation rises with frequency, so the wave loses energy more quickly as it travels through the material. That means signals weaken more with depth, reducing penetration. Put together, higher frequency transducers give greater sensitivity and better resolution, but they also exhibit greater attenuation.