If using a high-frequency x-ray generator, which of the following will have the greatest effect on increasing exposure to the image receptor?

Increasing the kilovolt peak (kVp) by 15% has a significant effect on the exposure to the image receptor when using a high-frequency x-ray generator. This is primarily because kVp determines the energy of the x-ray photons produced; a higher kVp results in more energetic photons. These higher-energy photons are more capable of penetrating tissues and thus can result in a greater quantity of photons reaching the image receptor. This not only enhances image exposure but also improves image quality by increasing the contrast and reducing the overall dose of radiation needed to achieve suitable exposure levels.

The effects of kVp are often more substantial than those of other adjustments. For instance, while an increase in mAs will also increase exposure, it does so in a linear manner where doubling the mAs will typically double the radiation dose. However, the increase in exposure from a rise in kVp is exponential, meaning that a modest increase can produce a much larger increase in exposure than the same percentage increase in mAs, especially in the context of high-frequency generators, which operate more efficiently.

In summary, a 15% increase in kVp significantly boosts the energy of the x-ray beam and consequently increases exposure to the image receptor effectively, making it a powerful adjustment in radi