What factor can significantly enhance the quality of an X-ray image when considering spatial resolution?

Decreasing the distance between the source and the image receptor is a key factor that significantly enhances the quality of an X-ray image in terms of spatial resolution. When the distance between the X-ray source (tube) and the image receptor (film or digital detector) is reduced, the X-ray beam's divergence is minimized, resulting in less blurring of the image. This improved geometric arrangement allows for better detail and clarity of the anatomical structures being imaged, leading to higher spatial resolution.

In X-ray imaging, spatial resolution refers to the ability to distinguish small structures and details within the image. A shorter distance contributes to better definition and contrast between different tissues, improving the overall diagnostic quality of the image. This technique is essential, particularly when imaging intricate areas of anatomy where detail is critical for accurate diagnosis.

While factors such as patient size and equipment quality play important roles in image quality, adjusting the source-to-image receptor distance is a direct method to enhance spatial resolution effectively. Increased patient movement, on the other hand, would degrade image quality by causing motion blur and compromising spatial resolution.