A radiographic image is made using 500 mA, 0.1 sec., 80 kVp, and 48-inches SID. The value of the mAs for this exposure is:

To determine the mAs value for the given exposure settings, one must understand how milliamperes (mA), time in seconds (sec), and their product relate to the exposure measured in milliampere-seconds (mAs).

The formula for calculating mAs is straightforward:

mAs = mA × time (in seconds).

In this scenario, the exposure is made using 500 mA for a duration of 0.1 seconds. By applying the formula:

mAs = 500 mA × 0.1 sec = 50 mAs.

This calculation shows that the correct mAs value for the exposure is indeed 50 mAs. It provides a clear understanding of the relationship between the current, exposure time, and the total amount of radiation produced during the exposure, which ultimately affects image quality in radiography.

This understanding of how to calculate mAs is essential for radiographic practice, as it helps optimize the exposure settings based on the desired quality and the patient’s safety.