Why is it dangerous to scan a coil that is not plugged in?

Scanning a coil that is not plugged in can lead to excessive heating, causing potential burns to the patient. When a coil is not powered, the system may not function correctly and can lead to interactions that create excessive energy, which may be focused in specific areas, leading to localized heating. This risk is heightened in certain types of coils and configurations, where the absence of functionality may not dissipate energy effectively, raising the potential for harm to the patient. Properly functioning coils convert radiofrequency energy into signals used to create images; without power, they can create unwanted thermal effects.

While other options present valid concerns, they do not directly relate to the inherent danger posed to patient safety that stem from excessive heating.