Which of the following effects does the anode heel effect influence?

The anode heel effect influences the uniformity of beam intensity. This phenomenon occurs due to the geometry of the X-ray tube and the placement of the anode and cathode. In simple terms, as X-rays are produced, they are emitted in varying intensities across the X-ray beam. The thicker parts of the target (the anode) absorb more photons compared to those emitted from the thinner edge of the anode, causing a variation in intensity.

As a result, when imaging larger anatomical structures, the side of the X-ray film or detector that is closer to the cathode will generally receive a higher radiation intensity compared to the side closer to the anode. This non-uniformity can affect the quality of the image and may necessitate adjustments in technique depending on the area being imaged to ensure optimal diagnostic clarity. Therefore, recognizing the influence of the anode heel effect on beam intensity uniformity is essential for radiologic technologists in delivering accurate and high-quality images.