Which of the following increases with an increase in the kV applied to the x-ray tube?

An increase in the kilovoltage (kV) applied to the x-ray tube directly influences the exposure rate, which is the quantity of x-ray photons produced in a given time frame. Higher kV results in more energetic x-ray photons being generated, increasing the number of photons that can penetrate the patient and reach the detector. Consequently, this leads to a higher exposure rate.

Additionally, while the wavelength of x-rays would decrease as kV increases due to the relationship between energy and wavelength, it is important to note that this is not typically the first consideration in relation to the clinical implications of exposure rates. Moreover, patient absorption generally increases with higher kV exposures in certain contexts but is often dependent on factors such as tissue density and type.

Thus, focusing on exposure rate is most pertinent when understanding the effects of increasing kV, as it directly correlates to the quantity of useful x-rays available for imaging.