Which technical factor combination produces the greatest receptor exposure?

The combination that produces the greatest receptor exposure is determined by several factors including milliampere-seconds (mAs), kilovolt peak (kVp), and source-to-image distance (SID). In this case, the factors of mAs and SID play significant roles in the receptor exposure achieved.

The mAs directly influences the quantity of x-ray photons produced; higher mAs means more photons and, consequently, greater receptor exposure. Meanwhile, the SID affects the intensity of the x-ray beam reaching the receptor. A shorter SID generally results in greater intensity and exposure at the receptor due to the inverse square law, which states that as distance increases from the source of radiation, the intensity decreases.

Looking specifically at the correct choice, the combination of 10 mAs, 74 kV, and 36-in. SID provides a strong level of exposure due to the higher mAs combined with the shorter distance. The 10 mAs setting contributes more photons than the lower 5 mAs options, and using a 36-in. SID maximizes intensity at the receptor when compared to longer distances.

In contrast, the other choices either have a lower mAs, which decreases the number of x-ray photons, or a longer SID, which diminishes