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CT, or Computed Tomography, also known as computed axial tomography or CAT, is a form of tomographic scanner which builds images up by slices. Either the CT scanner rotates around the object, or the object is rotated inside a CT scanner. Each slice is directed straight through the object, be an emitter to a receiver on the other side. Any resistance on the way, registers as a drop in density for the receiver.
Both the sender and receiver remain diametrically opposing, as the angle is rotated slightly and another scan made. By continually rotating and making new scans, a 3D slice of the object is constructed. Then, the object is moved (or the scanner moved relative) by a slight vertical amount, and the whole process begins again.
The result is a series of slices that can be assembled into a 3D model for use elsewhere.