What does AEC stand for in radiography?

• A. Automatic Emission Calibration
• B. Automatic Exposure Control
• C. Anode Exposure Counter
• D. Automatic Exposure Centering

Answer: (B)

The main idea here is how exposure is managed automatically in radiography. AEC stands for Automatic Exposure Control. In practice, this system uses detectors—ionization chambers or solid-state sensors—placed under the patient or behind the image receptor. As the x-ray beam exposes the detector, the sensors monitor the amount of radiation reaching the receptor. When the preset exposure value is reached, the AEC circuitry stops the exposure, producing a consistent receptor exposure and image density across patients and exams. This helps reduce variations caused by patient size or technique, though the radiographer still selects kVp and mA and must ensure proper centering so the beam sits over the detector. A backup timer is often used to prevent overexposure if a detector fails. The other terms don’t describe this automatic exposure termination function.