What imaging technique uses x-rays to create a series of slices of the brain?

A CT scan, or computed tomography scan, utilizes x-ray technology to capture cross-sectional images of the brain in various slices. This imaging technique involves rotating an x-ray device around the patient to take multiple images from different angles. A computer then processes these images to construct detailed pictures of the brain's internal structures, allowing for visualization of abnormalities such as tumors or brain injuries. This slices-based approach is particularly useful because it provides a comprehensive view of various layers of the brain, which can help in diagnosing a wide range of medical conditions.

In contrast, MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves to generate images without the use of x-rays, offering greater detail in soft tissue imaging. fMRI measures brain activity by detecting changes in blood flow, while PET scans utilize radioactive tracers to observe metabolic processes in the brain. Each of these methods serves distinct purposes in medical imaging, but for generating x-ray-based slices of the brain, the CT scan is the appropriate choice.