Definition Of Terms Flashcards
refers to the series of chemical reactions that transform the latent image (invisible image) into a visible or manifest image on a radiographic film. The process involves the conversion of exposed silver halide crystals in the emulsion into metallic silver, creating various shades of black, white, and gray that form the final diagnostic image.
Film processing
used in automatic processors as a hardener, can cause throat irritation.
Glutaraldehyde
used in the stop bath, can cause coughing and breathing difficulties.
Acetic acid
the first step in the processing sequence of radiographic films. It involves immersing the exposed film in a liquid, typically water, to prepare it for subsequent chemical treatments. This step is crucial as it allows the emulsion layer to swell, ensuring that the developing and fixing solutions can effectively reach all parts of the film.
Wetting
the stage in radiographic film processing where the latent image (invisible image formed by exposure to radiation) is converted into a visible image. This process occurs by chemically reducing the exposed silver halide crystals into metallic silver, which appears as black or dark areas on the film.
Developing
Processing Time for Developing in manual processing
5 minutes at a temperature of 20°C (68°F).
Processing Time for Developing in automatic Processor
Takes about 22 seconds, 35°C (95°F)
chemical solution that converts exposed silver halide crystals into metallic silver. This is what makes the latent image visible on the radiograph.
Developer
is designed to halt the development process immediately after the film has been developed. It prevents overdevelopment by neutralizing any remaining developer solution on the film. This step ensures that the developing agents are no longer active, preserving the image quality and contrast.
stop bath or rinsing stage
Processing Time for Stop Bath on Manual Processing
Takes approximately 30 seconds at room temperature.
Processing Time for Stop Bath
Incorporated into the fixing stage
usually a mild acidic solution that works by neutralizing the alkaline developer solution.
Stop bath
Most commonly used stop bath.
Rapidly neutralizes the developer and stops the developing process.
Has a strong vinegar-like odor.
Acetic Acid (2% solution)
Less odorous alternative to acetic acid.
Also effective at stopping the developer reaction but is gentler on the emulsion.
Citric acid
Uses an acidic solution to chemically neutralize the developer.
Stop Bath
Uses water to wash away excess developer, but may not completely stop the reaction if the developer has not been neutralized.
Rinsing
stage in film processing where the remaining unexposed silver halide crystals are removed from the emulsion. It also hardens the gelatin layer, ensuring the image becomes stable and resistant to physical damage.
Fixing
Processing Time for Fixing on manual processing
15 minutes at room temperature (around 20°C or 68°F).
Processing Time for Fixing on Automatic processing
22 seconds in an automatic processor.
is a chemical bath that removes the unexposed silver halide crystals and hardens the gelatin layer of the film emulsion.
Fixing solution
refers to the permanence of the radiograph—its ability to maintain its original quality and state over time without fading or discoloration.
Archival quality
the stage in film processing where remaining or excess chemicals from the developing and fixing steps are removed from the film emulsion using water.
Washing
Processing Time for Washing on manual processing
20 minutes in running water at a temperature of around 20°C (68°F).
Processing Time for Washing on automatic processing
20 seconds
Ideal washing temperature for manual processing
20°C to 30°C
Ideal washing temperature for automatic processing
35°C to 40°C
the final stage in radiographic film processing where water used during washing is removed from the film emulsion. It ensures that the film is ready for handling and viewing without damage or distortion.
Drying
Processing Time for Drying in manual processing
30 minutes
Processing Time for Drying for Automatic processing
26 seconds
