For best axial resolution among the options, which transducer configuration would you choose?

• A. 10 MHz linear array
• B. 10 MHz curved array
• C. 5 MHz linear array
• D. 5 MHz curved array

Answer: (A)

Axial resolution improves when the pulse along the beam is shorter. This is tied to spatial pulse length, which is the wavelength times the number of cycles in the pulse. Using a higher frequency gives a shorter wavelength, which shortens the pulse length and lets the system distinguish two closely spaced reflectors along the beam path.

Among the options, the transducer with the higher frequency will provide better axial resolution, because the shorter wavelength at 10 MHz yields a shorter spatial pulse length than 5 MHz. The difference between linear and curved arrays matters more for beam shape and lateral resolution than for axial resolution, so the higher-frequency choice dominates. Therefore, the 10 MHz linear array offers the best axial resolution.