Which two types of filtration are included in the total filtration of the x-ray beam?

The total filtration of the x-ray beam consists of both added and inherent filtration. Inherent filtration refers to the materials that are permanently part of the x-ray machine itself, such as the glass or metal enclosure of the x-ray tube, which naturally filter out low-energy photons from the beam. This helps to improve the quality of the x-ray beam, ensuring it is more effective for diagnostic purposes.

Added filtration, on the other hand, includes any extra materials that are deliberately placed in the x-ray beam path, such as aluminum filters. These filters serve to further absorb low-energy x-rays and reduce patient exposure to unnecessary radiation while allowing higher-energy x-rays, which are more useful for imaging, to pass through.

Together, inherent and added filtration work to optimize image quality and minimize radiation dose to the patient, making them essential components of the x-ray technique. Understanding these types of filtration is crucial for radiologic technologists, as they directly impact the safety and efficacy of x-ray imaging procedures.