When Kilovoltage Is Increased?

The beam quality is controlled by the kilovoltage. The kVp regulates the speed of electrons traveling from the cathode to the anode and determines the penetrating ability of the x-ray beam. When the kVp increases, the resulting x-ray beam is of higher energy and increased penetrating ability (Figure 5).

What happens when the Kilovoltage is increased?

Tube voltage, in turn, determines the quantity and quality of the photons generated. An increase in kVp extends and intensifies the x-ray emission spectrum, such that the maximal and average/effective energies are higher and the photon number/intensity is higher.

What does a higher kVp setting result in?

A higher kVp will make the x-ray beam more penetrating. This will result in less difference in attenuation between the different parts of the subject, leading to lower contrast.