MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) and CT (Computed Tomography) scans are both advanced imaging techniques used to visualize the internal structures of the body, but they serve different purposes and have distinct advantages. MRI uses powerful magnets and radio waves, making it particularly useful for visualizing soft tissues like the brain, spinal cord, and joints without ionizing radiation. CT scans, on the other hand, use X-rays and are faster and more effective in visualizing bone fractures, lung issues, and certain cancers but involve exposure to ionizing radiation. The choice between the two often depends on the specific clinical scenario, the area of the body being examined, and the type of information a doctor needs.