Which term describes the ability to differentiate small, high-contrast objects in CT imaging?

The ability to differentiate small, high-contrast objects in CT imaging is best described by the term spatial resolution. Spatial resolution refers to the capability of an imaging system to distinguish between two closely spaced objects. In the context of CT, this means how well the scanner can reveal details and the contrast between structures that are not only small in size but also have a significant difference in density or composition. High spatial resolution is critical for accurate diagnoses, as it enables the detection of small tumors or abnormalities that could be significant for patient care.

In this context, other terms mentioned, such as subject contrast and image contrast, refer to the differences in density or composition of tissues imaged, but they do not specifically measure the system's ability to resolve small structures. Temporal resolution pertains to the system's ability to capture changes over time, which is important in dynamic imaging but does not directly relate to the differentiation of small objects in a single scan. Therefore, the primary term that indicates the capability to differentiate these objects effectively is spatial resolution.