Which component reduces scatter and improves image quality by absorbing scattered photons along grid lines?

• A. Lead shield
• B. XRAY Grid
• C. Collimator
• D. Exposure button

Answer: (B)

Scatter adds fog to the image and lowers contrast, so the best way to cut through that unwanted light is a device designed specifically to absorb scatter before it reaches the detector. An XRAY Grid consists of alternating lead strips and radiolucent spacers placed between the patient and the image receptor. The lead strips intercept photons traveling at oblique angles—those are the scattered photons—while the primary photons that travel straight through the gaps reach the detector. This selective absorption reduces the amount of scatter reaching the image receptor, which increases image contrast and clarity. Proper use is important: the grid must be aligned with the beam to avoid grid cutoff, and exposure settings sometimes need adjustment to compensate for the grid’s absorption.