Medical imaging refers to techniques that create visual representations of the body's interior, including X-rays, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound, nuclear medicine, and positron emission tomography (PET). X-rays produce images of bones and dense tissues while CT scans create detailed 3D images; MRI uses magnets and radio waves to image soft tissues; ultrasound uses sound waves to view organs; nuclear medicine and PET involve radioactive tracers; and medical imaging plays a key role in diagnosis and treatment but risks like radiation exposure must be considered.