Final answer:
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is the medical imaging technique that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of soft tissue without radiation exposure.
Step-by-step explanation:
The technique that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce computer-generated images of soft tissue is Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). MRI is a noninvasive medical imaging technique that generates detailed images of internal tissues and organs without exposing patients to radiation. It is based on a phenomenon of nuclear physics called nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR).
In MRI, an externally applied magnetic field interacts with the nuclei of certain atoms, primarily hydrogen. The nuclei emit radio signals when the magnetic field is turned off, which are then captured and used to create detailed images of the body's internal structures.
MRI scanners have seen significant advancements in digital computing and electronics, leading to their prominence in precise imaging of the human body. This highly detailed imaging technology is especially valuable for discovering tumors and diagnosing various medical conditions. Furthermore, MRI scanners are considered superior in some aspects compared to CT scans, PET scans, and X-rays because they do not involve ionizing radiation, which can be harmful in large doses.