What color does a radiolucent structure appear on a radiograph?

A radiolucent structure appears black on a radiograph due to its ability to allow x-rays to pass through more easily compared to surrounding tissues. This property results from the lower density of the material, which absorbs fewer x-rays. In radiology, radiolucent areas typically correspond to structures like air or fat and demonstrate a lack of x-ray absorption, leading to a darker appearance on the film or digital image.

In contrast, denser tissues such as bone or metal are radiopaque and appear white or lighter on the radiograph because they absorb more x-rays. Thus, recognizing the black appearance of radiolucent structures helps medical professionals interpret radiographs effectively, allowing for better diagnostic evaluations.