How does changing the distance from the source to the patient generally affect radiation intensity?

Changing the distance from the source of radiation to the patient primarily affects radiation intensity due to the inverse square law. This law states that the intensity of radiation is inversely proportional to the square of the distance from the source. As the distance from the source increases, the radiation is spread over a larger area, resulting in a decrease in intensity.

For example, if you double the distance from the radiation source, the intensity becomes one-fourth of its original value. This principle is crucial in radiography, as it emphasizes the importance of maintaining appropriate distances to minimize radiation exposure to patients and medical personnel.

The other choices do not align with how radiation intensity behaves with distance. Increasing the distance results in decreased intensity; therefore, options that claim the intensity increases, has no effect, or depends on the type of radiation do not reflect this fundamental principle of radiologic physics.