What does the term "radiopacity" refer to in radiology?

Radiopacity refers to the property of a substance to absorb radiation, specifically X-rays, making it appear white or light on a radiographic image. In radiology, different materials have varying levels of radiopacity. Denser materials, such as bone, absorb more radiation than less dense materials, such as soft tissue. This differential absorption allows radiologists to distinguish between various structures in the body during imaging procedures.

When a substance is radiopaque, it effectively prevents radiation from passing through it, creating a contrast on the radiographic film or digital image. This characteristic is crucial for the interpretation of medical images, as it highlights important anatomical features and abnormalities. In contrast, materials that do not absorb significant radiation will appear darker on the images, aiding in the overall diagnostic process.