Increasing filtration has what effect on the x-ray beam?

Increasing filtration in the x-ray beam primarily affects its composition and intensity. Filtration refers to the process of selectively removing low-energy x-rays from the beam before they reach the patient. This is typically achieved by placing a material, often aluminum, in the path of the x-ray beam.

When filtration increases, low-energy photons are absorbed more effectively, which decreases the overall quantity of x-rays that can penetrate through the filter. Consequently, the number of x-rays emitted to the patient is reduced. However, the remaining high-energy x-rays, which contribute more to image quality, result in an increased overall quality of the beam. These higher-energy photons are more likely to reach the film or detector to produce a diagnostic image while minimizing the dose of radiation to the patient.

Therefore, while the quantity of the x-ray beam decreases due to increased filtration, the quality increases, making the correct answer the one that identifies a decrease in quantity alongside an increase in quality. This understanding is critical in radiography, as it helps in optimizing image quality while minimizing unnecessary radiation exposure to patients.