On a radiograph, does a tungsten inclusion appear as a light or dark area?

In radiographic imaging, tungsten inclusions appear as a light area. This characteristic is due to the high density and atomic number of tungsten compared to the surrounding materials. When a radiograph is created, x-rays are passed through the material being inspected; materials with higher density absorb more x-rays and allow fewer to reach the film or digital detector, resulting in lighter areas on the radiograph.

Since tungsten is much denser than most other materials found in welding or metal structures, it will block more x-rays, creating a pronounced light spot on the radiograph. This is crucial for identifying potential defects, as tungsten inclusions can disrupt the bonding and integrity of the weld, making their detection important for quality control in welding practices.