Why is filtration important in radiography?

Filtration is a crucial process in radiography because it serves to absorb lower-energy x-ray photons, which are less likely to contribute to the diagnostic quality of the image. By removing these low-energy photons, filtration helps to improve the overall quality of the radiographic image. Low-energy x-rays contribute to patient dose but do not provide useful information, as they are more likely to be absorbed by the patient's tissue rather than contributing to the image on the film or sensor.

This means that the x-ray beam is composed of higher-energy photons, which can travel through the body and provide accurate diagnostic information while minimizing unnecessary radiation exposure to the patient. This process enhances the efficiency of the imaging procedure, ensuring that the resulting images are clearer and more informative for diagnostic purposes. Thus, the importance of filtration in radiography cannot be overstated, as it directly impacts image quality and patient safety.