Which type of defects can ultrasound effectively detect?

Ultrasound testing is a versatile non-destructive testing method that utilizes high-frequency sound waves to detect imperfections within a material. The correct choice indicates that ultrasound can effectively identify internal and near-surface defects, such as cracks, voids, and inclusions.

This capability is due to the way ultrasound interacts with different materials. When ultrasonic waves are transmitted into a material, they can reflect off discontinuities within the material. If a defect is present, it will cause a change in the amplitude or time of the returned signal, allowing accurate identification of its presence and size.

Internal defects such as cracks and voids can be located deep within the material since ultrasonic waves can penetrate thick sections, making this method ideal for examining welds, structural components, and complex geometries. Near-surface defects, while sometimes more challenging to detect due to the proximity to the surface, can still be identified when proper techniques and equipment are utilized.

The other choices are too restrictive or not wholly accurate. For instance, limiting detection to only surface defects or voids does not account for the full range of issues that ultrasound can reveal. Similarly, stating that only external cracks can be detected ignores the method's strength in assessing internal flaws. Thus, the breadth of defects that