Which of the following methods is considered most effective in reducing the production of scattered radiation?

Using compression is considered the most effective method in reducing the production of scattered radiation. This technique works by physically decreasing the thickness of the tissue being imaged. When the thickness of the object is reduced, there is less volume for the x-ray beam to penetrate, which consequently minimizes the likelihood of scattering events.

Scattered radiation occurs when x-rays interact with matter and are deflected from their original path. By compressing the tissue, you not only diminish the radiation dose required for imaging but also enhance the image quality by reducing the amount of scatter that reaches the image receptor. This results in clearer images with better contrast.

The other methods listed do not effectively target the core issue of reducing the scattering of radiation. Increasing kilovoltage can enhance the penetration of x-rays but does not necessarily control scatter. Increasing exposure time could lead to increased patient dose without benefiting scatter control. Decreasing the object-to-image receptor distance mainly affects the geometry and magnification of the image rather than directly addressing scattered radiation.