Why is exposure time significant in radiography?

Exposure time is significant in radiography because it directly influences image quality. In radiographic testing, the amount of exposure time determines how much radiation interacts with the film or detector, which affects the resultant image's density and contrast. Too short of an exposure time can lead to underexposed images with insufficient detail, while excessive exposure may result in overexposed images that can wash out critical information, obscuring the features needed for accurate interpretation.

Achieving the right exposure time is crucial for balancing the need for adequate detail and minimizing unnecessary exposure to radiation, thus impacting the overall quality and diagnostic capability of the radiographic image.