What is the purpose of using a collimator in radiation practices?

A collimator is used in radiation practices primarily to narrow the beam of radiation. This serves several important purposes, including minimizing exposure to surrounding areas and improving the accuracy of targeting the radiation at desired locations, such as in medical imaging or radiation therapy. By focusing the radiation into a narrower beam, the collimator helps to ensure that the radiation is delivered precisely where it is needed, which can enhance the effectiveness of the treatment or imaging while reducing potential harm to healthy tissues surrounding the target area.

Other options suggest functions such as increasing radiation intensity, absorbing all radiation, or enhancing the radiation's range, which do not align with the operational principles of a collimator. Increasing radiation intensity is counterproductive, as collimators are designed to control and limit the radiation. Absorbing all radiation is contrary to the goal of directing it effectively. Enhancing range is also not a function of collimators, as their purpose is to concentrate rather than extend the spread of the radiation beam.