Question

a radiograph of the lumbar spine is produced using automatic exposure control (aec). the exposure results in optimal contrast but low receptor exposure. what is the ideal way to increase receptor exposure?
increase milliamperage (ma)
increase kilovoltage peak (kvp)
decrease grid ratio
increase density setting

Explanation:

In radiography, when using automatic exposure control (AEC) and aiming to increase receptor exposure while maintaining optimal contrast, increasing the density setting is a direct way. Increasing mA can increase exposure but may affect other factors. Increasing kVp can change the penetration and contrast significantly. Decreasing grid ratio affects scatter - radiation control rather than directly increasing receptor exposure in the context of AEC with optimal contrast already achieved.

Answer:

Increase density setting