Which of the following is a benefit of using ultrasound?

Ultrasound is a valuable diagnostic tool primarily due to its ability to provide real-time imaging without exposing patients to ionizing radiation. This characteristic makes it particularly advantageous for use in various medical scenarios, such as monitoring fetal development during pregnancy or assessing soft tissue structures. The lack of radiation exposure is a significant benefit, especially for sensitive populations like children or pregnant individuals, where minimizing radiation risk is a priority.

Other imaging modalities, such as X-rays and CT scans, utilize radiation and have associated risks, making ultrasound a safer alternative in many cases. Additionally, the real-time imaging capability of ultrasound also enables dynamic assessments—for instance, observing blood flow or the movement of organs in real-time—which is beneficial for both diagnostic and procedural purposes.

This feature distinguishes ultrasound from other imaging techniques, which may not offer the same level of safe, immediate feedback. The other options either misrepresent ultrasound's characteristics or emphasize traits that are not associated with its usage.