DANB Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) Exam 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Test

The principle behind using a step wedge in radiographic testing is to assess film sensitivity and image quality through varying densities. A step wedge is composed of a series of steps, each with a different thickness or density, which results in varying degrees of radiation exposure. When this wedge is placed in the path of the X-ray beam, it creates a range of shadow densities on the radiographic film.

By observing the differing image densities produced by the step wedge, radiologists or technicians can evaluate the film's response to varying levels of exposure, which helps in determining its sensitivity. This assessment is critical for ensuring optimal imaging conditions, as it enables the operator to adjust exposure settings according to the film characteristics, ultimately leading to better-quality images that show clearer details and contrast.

In contexts such as industrial radiography or dental imaging, evaluating film sensitivity impacts the assessment of defects in materials or the health of dental structures, making this knowledge essential for effective diagnostics.