Duty cycle approaching 100% results in greater thermal effect. True or False?

Duty cycle approaching 100% results in greater thermal effect. True or False?

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not related
• D. Only at high frequencies

Answer: (A)

Duty cycle is the fraction of time the energy is on during a treatment cycle. When it approaches 100%, energy is delivered almost continuously, leaving little opportunity for the tissue to dissipate heat between pulses. That means the temperature can rise more, producing a stronger thermal effect. If the duty cycle is lower, there are off periods that allow cooling, so the average heating is reduced. So the statement is true: near-100% duty cycle yields greater heating. Of course, the actual amount of heat also depends on the power level, duration, and tissue properties, but the general relationship holds.

Duty cycle is the fraction of time the energy is on during a treatment cycle. When it approaches 100%, energy is delivered almost continuously, leaving little opportunity for the tissue to dissipate heat between pulses. That means the temperature can rise more, producing a stronger thermal effect. If the duty cycle is lower, there are off periods that allow cooling, so the average heating is reduced. So the statement is true: near-100% duty cycle yields greater heating. Of course, the actual amount of heat also depends on the power level, duration, and tissue properties, but the general relationship holds.