In physics, Snell’s Law describes the relationship between the angles of incidence and refraction of a wave passing through the boundary between two different isotropic media, such as sound waves traveling through various body tissues. This fundamental principle dictates how ultrasound beams bend when encountering interfaces between structures with different acoustic impedances, impacting image quality and diagnostic accuracy.
Understanding Snell’s Law is crucial in medical ultrasound to accurately interpret images and avoid artifacts caused by refraction. It helps sonographers optimize probe angulation to minimize beam deviation, ensuring precise visualization of anatomical structures and pathologies. This knowledge enhances diagnostic reliability in various clinical applications.