What is one function that filters perform in relation to radiation?

Filters play a critical role in radiography and radiation management by reducing stray radiation. This function is essential for enhancing image quality and protecting the patient.

When radiation passes through a filter, the filter can selectively absorb lower-energy photons, which are primarily responsible for creating unwanted scatter rather than contributing to the formation of a high-quality image. By diminishing these lower-energy photons, filters help to enhance the overall clarity of the image while simultaneously reducing the dose of radiation that the patient receives from scatter. This reduction in stray radiation not only safeguards the patient but also improves the diagnostic efficacy of the radiographic images.

In contrast, the other options relate to effects that do not align with the primary purpose of filters in radiation contexts. While haze on film, increased absorption by the patient, or longer exposure times may be considerations in radiographic processes, they do not accurately describe the filtering function of removing undesired radiation from the exposure pathway.