Clover Learning X-ray Production And Safety Practice Test

How does increasing filtration thickness affect the quality of the x-ray beam?

decreased quality no change in quality increased quality variable with beam energy

Correct Answer:

increased quality

Explanation:

Beam quality is about the penetrating power of the X-ray beam, which corresponds to the average energy of the photons. Increasing filtration thickness removes more of the low-energy (soft) photons from the spectrum. Those soft photons contribute little to image formation but increase patient dose, so their removal leaves a beam comprised of higher-energy photons. This makes the beam more penetrating, which we describe as increased quality, and it is reflected by a higher half-value layer. Keep in mind that while quality goes up, the total number of photons reaching the image receptor decreases, so exposure adjustments may be needed.

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