A linear accelerator that makes use of a motorized wedge produces a wedge of any angle by _____

The function of a linear accelerator with a motorized wedge is to create a wedge-shaped radiation distribution for dose delivery. By suitably combining the open field and wedge field exposures, the machine is able to produce a wedge of any desired angle. This is achieved through a technique known as "wedge pair" or "dynamic wedge," where the treatment delivery can be tailored to the specific needs of the patient's anatomy and the treatment plan.

The use of a motorized wedge provides flexibility in radiation therapy, allowing for adjustments in beam profiles based on treatment requirements. By combining the appropriate exposures, dosimetrists can optimize dose distribution to conform to the shape of the tumor while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissue.

In contrast, adjusting output settings would affect the dose but not specifically the wedge shape. Modifying beam width also does not directly relate to wedge production, as the wedge angle specifically requires tailored combinations of field exposures rather than just changing geometry. Changing the patient position would assist in localization but would not influence the creation of a wedge effect by the linear accelerator.