What does a reference histogram provide during image acquisition?

A reference histogram during image acquisition provides an essential visual representation of the luminance values in the image. This histogram plots the frequency of each luminance value, allowing radiologists and technicians to assess the distribution of pixels in the image. The peak of the histogram indicates the most common luminance level, while the spread of the histogram can reveal information about contrast and dynamic range within the image.

Understanding luminance values is crucial for evaluating image quality and ensuring that the images captured are neither underexposed nor overexposed. This accurate assessment helps in making necessary adjustments to the imaging parameters to optimize image quality for interpretation. A reference histogram aids in guiding these adjustments, making it a vital tool in the image acquisition process.