What may happen if excess penetrant is not properly removed before developing?

The correct choice indicates that if excess penetrant is not properly removed before the developing process, it can mask defects, leading to false results. In Liquid Penetrant Testing, the primary goal is to identify surface discontinuities by observing where the penetrant gathers after being applied to the test surface. Proper removal of excess penetrant is crucial because any residue can obscure these indications, making it difficult to see actual defects that may be present.

When excess penetrant remains, it provides a misleading background that can either conceal true defects or produce patterns that suggest defects where none exist. This masking effect can lead to incorrect conclusions about the integrity of the material being tested. Therefore, it is essential to follow the appropriate cleaning procedures to ensure that only the penetrant that has seeped into actual flaws remains, allowing for an accurate assessment.