If the detector element (DEL) size is decreased while keeping pitch constant, what is the expected effect on spatial resolution?

If the detector element (DEL) size is decreased while keeping pitch constant, what is the expected effect on spatial resolution?

• A. Decrease
• B. Increase
• C. Remain the same
• D. Become unpredictable

Answer: (B)

Spatial resolution improves when detector element size is reduced because imaging is sampled more finely, allowing better localization of where each photon interaction occurred. Keeping the pitch the same means the sampling grid spacing stays the same, but smaller elements confine the detected signal to a smaller area, reducing spreading and cross-talk between neighboring elements. This tighter localization sharpens edges and makes it easier to distinguish closely spaced features, so the overall spatial resolution increases.

Spatial resolution improves when detector element size is reduced because imaging is sampled more finely, allowing better localization of where each photon interaction occurred. Keeping the pitch the same means the sampling grid spacing stays the same, but smaller elements confine the detected signal to a smaller area, reducing spreading and cross-talk between neighboring elements. This tighter localization sharpens edges and makes it easier to distinguish closely spaced features, so the overall spatial resolution increases.