When comparing a 50-kVp beam to a 100-kVp beam, which experiences more attenuation from the apron?

When examining the attenuation of X-ray beams, kVp (kilovolt peak) is a critical factor because it influences both the energy and penetrability of the X-rays produced. A 50-kVp beam has lower energy compared to a 100-kVp beam.

As X-ray beams pass through materials, such as a lead or lead-equivalent apron, higher energy beams (like the 100-kVp beam) tend to penetrate more effectively. This means they are less likely to be absorbed or scattered by the apron material, resulting in lower attenuation. Conversely, the lower energy of the 50-kVp beam means it is more susceptible to absorption and scattering as it encounters the material of the apron, leading to greater attenuation.

This difference in energy levels explains why the 50-kVp beam experiences more attenuation when interacting with the apron, as lower-energy photons are absorbed more readily as they travel through dense materials.