What does kilovoltage (kV) influence in x-ray imaging?

Kilovoltage (kV) is a critical factor in x-ray imaging as it directly influences the penetrating power of the x-ray beam. When the kilovoltage is increased, the energy of the x-ray photons also increases, allowing them to penetrate through denser tissues and materials in the body. This is particularly important for imaging various types of tissues, where differing densities can affect the quality and clarity of the resulting images.

By adjusting the kV, radiologic technologists can optimize image quality—higher kV levels help in obtaining images of thicker anatomical structures without compromising image quality due to underexposure. Therefore, the kV setting plays a vital role in ensuring that the x-rays can pass through the body sufficiently to create a clear diagnostic image. In this context, the ability to manipulate the penetration power of the x-ray beam becomes vital for the effectiveness of the imaging process.