What does the term "mA" refer to in the context of radiography?

The term "mA" stands for milliamperage, which is a unit of measurement for electric current. In the context of radiography, it specifically refers to the amount of electrical current flowing through the x-ray tube during imaging. This current affects the quantity of x-rays produced; higher mA settings lead to increased x-ray output, resulting in a denser image on the radiograph.

Understanding milliamperage is vital for radiographers since it influences image quality as well as patient dose. Proper management of mA settings helps ensure that the images are not overexposed or underexposed, allowing for adequate detail while minimizing radiation exposure to the patient.

The other terms do not accurately describe the context of radiography: "milliton" and "miliAngle" are not recognized units in this field, and "magnetic amperes" also refer to concepts related to magnetism rather than the measurement of electrical current in radiography.