Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) Practice Test

On a sound wave display, what does the initial pulse indicate?

1. A

2. B

3. C

4. D

The correct answer is: A

In the context of a sound wave display, the initial pulse typically indicates the arrival of the first echo or reflection of the sound wave after it has been sent into the medium being tested. This pulse represents the point at which the sound wave has interacted with a specific feature or boundary within the material, such as a flaw, a change in material density, or the back wall of the tested object. When monitoring sound waves, it is crucial to recognize that the initial pulse allows technicians to establish baseline data for further analysis. By evaluating the characteristics of this pulse, such as its amplitude and time of arrival, NDT technicians can gain valuable insights into the integrity of the material. Understanding this fundamental aspect of sound wave behavior enables practitioners to effectively assess defects and material properties through non-destructive methods.