What is the effect of filtration on x-ray beam quality?

Filtration is a crucial technique used in radiography to improve the quality of the x-ray beam. Specifically, filtration removes lower energy photons from the x-ray beam, which do not contribute to image formation but instead increase patient dose. These low-energy photons are less capable of penetrating tissue and would typically be absorbed by the body, leading to unnecessary exposure without enhancing image quality.

By filtering out these lower energy photons, the overall quality of the x-ray beam is increased, resulting in a higher proportion of high-energy photons that can effectively penetrate the tissues being examined. This results in better image contrast and reduced radiation dose to the patient, making the radiographic procedure safer and more effective.

This understanding is fundamental in optimizing x-ray imaging and minimizing patient exposure. Hence, the effect of filtration on x-ray beam quality is primarily the removal of low energy photons.