What is the secondary (output) voltage of the autotransformer when the assigned tube potential is 76 kilovoltage peak (kVp)?

The secondary (output) voltage of the autotransformer is determined by the desired tube potential, which directly correlates to the kilovoltage peak (kVp) required for the radiographic examination. In this scenario, the assigned tube potential is 76 kVp. An autotransformer functions to step up or step down the voltage to the appropriate level for the x-ray tube, and thus, it outputs a voltage that corresponds to the set kVp.

In this case, the autotransformer will provide an output voltage of 76 kilovolts (kV) because that is the exact voltage needed for the operation of the x-ray tube. It is essential that the output voltage matches the required kVp to ensure sufficient energy for the x-rays to penetrate the body during imaging.

The other options do not accurately reflect the necessary output voltage for a 76 kVp setting. The terms used in the other choices (220 kilovolts, 220 volts, and 76 volts) either exceed the required kVp or do not represent the appropriate output voltage needed for the x-ray tube's function. Thus, the correct answer directly aligns with the assigned tube potential, which is why it is vital to understand this relationship in the context of radi