What occurs when there are fewer gray levels in an image?

When there are fewer gray levels in an image, it leads to less contrast resolution. Contrast resolution refers to the ability of an imaging system to distinguish between differences in tissue density, which is represented by varying shades of gray. With a limited number of gray levels, the subtle differences in tissue densities cannot be adequately depicted, resulting in a loss of detail and a flatter appearance to the image.

In imaging systems, having a wide range of gray levels allows for better differentiation among similar tissues, enhancing the diagnostic quality of the image. Conversely, with fewer levels, important diagnostic information may be obscured or lost, making it difficult to identify pathologies that rely on nuance and detail. This relationship is critical in medical imaging, where clear visualization of anatomical structures is essential for accurate assessments.