Which term describes the range of frequencies in an ultrasound pulse?

The term that describes the range of frequencies in an ultrasound pulse is bandwidth. Bandwidth refers specifically to the difference between the highest and lowest frequencies that are present in a pulse of ultrasound. In ultrasound imaging, a broader bandwidth allows for the transmission of a wider array of frequencies, which can improve image resolution and the ability to distinguish between different tissue types.

When considering pulse characteristics, bandwidth is crucial as it relates to the quality of the ultrasound image produced. A transducer with a wider bandwidth can create shorter pulse lengths, which leads to better axial resolution. This is important in cardiac imaging, where clarity and precision can significantly affect diagnostic outcomes.

While pulse repetition frequency refers to how often pulses are emitted over time, and the transducer's frequency indicates the nominal frequency at which a transducer operates, these do not encapsulate the range of frequencies present in a pulse itself. Whole bandwidth is not a commonly used term in the context of ultrasound physics. Hence, bandwidth is the most accurate term to describe the characteristic in question.