The total amount of radiation received by a patient during radiography is chiefly affected by the _____.

The total amount of radiation received by a patient during radiography is largely influenced by the technique selected for the imaging process. This includes factors such as exposure time, kilovoltage (kV), and milliamperage (mA), which collectively determine how much radiation is used to produce a diagnostic image. A well-chosen technique balances the need for image quality with minimizing radiation exposure, ensuring that the patient receives the least amount of radiation necessary to achieve a clear diagnostic image.

While other factors like the patient's age, the type of radiographic equipment used, and the experience of the radiologist can play roles in the overall process and outcome of radiographic imaging, they do not directly affect the dose of radiation given. For instance, younger patients might require more careful consideration of radiation exposure due to their increased sensitivity, but it is the technique that ultimately dictates the actual dose delivered. Conversely, advanced radiographic equipment may be designed to deliver lower doses while maintaining image quality, but again, it is the operator’s technique that will maximize this advantage. The radiologist's experience can help in making informed decisions about techniques and equipment, but it is the selected technique that directly influences radiation dosage.