Which line pairs per millimeter would represent the highest spatial frequency?

The highest spatial frequency in a digital radiography context is indicated by the number of line pairs per millimeter (lp/mm). Spatial frequency refers to the amount of detail visible in an image; the higher the spatial frequency, the finer the detail that can be discerned.

In this case, 12 lp/mm represents the highest spatial frequency among the given options. This means that within one millimeter, there are 12 pairs of lines, allowing for the perception of finer details in the radiographic image. Higher lp/mm values correlate with the ability to resolve smaller structures or differences in density within the image.

In clinical practice, achieving higher spatial frequencies is essential for tasks that require detailed visualization, such as identifying minute fractures or assessing soft tissue structures, where clarity and precision are crucial. Therefore, the answer indicating 12 lp/mm verifies that it supports the highest level of detail resolution available among the options presented.