Which factor can contribute to poor X-ray image contrast?

Inadequate developer temperature significantly affects the quality of X-ray images, particularly in terms of contrast. The developing process is critical to revealing the latent image formed on the film after exposure to radiation. When the developer temperature is not within the optimal range, the chemical reaction that develops the film can be altered.

If the developer is too cool, the activity of the developing agents is reduced, leading to underdevelopment; this can result in images that are too pale with low contrast, where the differences between light and dark areas are less distinguishable. Conversely, if the developer is too hot, it can cause overdevelopment, which may also negatively impact contrast by leading to excessively dark images.

Therefore, maintaining the appropriate developer temperature is essential for achieving the desired image quality, ensuring that the structures and details of the X-ray can be effectively visualized.