What aspect of a detector is evaluated through the concept of dynamic range?

Dynamic range refers to the range of exposure levels that a detector can accurately capture and display without significant degradation of image quality or loss of detail. It is an essential characteristic for evaluating the performance of imaging detectors because it indicates how well the detector can handle varying levels of radiation exposure, from very low to very high.

When a detector has a wide dynamic range, it can effectively produce images that maintain clarity across different exposure levels, which is crucial for accurate diagnosis and analysis in radiography. A detector with a limited dynamic range may struggle to render images that are appropriately exposed, leading to loss of detail either in very dark or very bright areas.

In contrast, aspects such as the detector's physical size, durability over time, and cost-effectiveness do not directly influence its ability to capture a wide spectrum of exposure levels. Therefore, understanding dynamic range is crucial for ensuring reliable and high-quality imaging in radiographic practices.