Which step follows the fixing process in film development?

The fixing process in film development is crucial as it removes unexposed silver halide crystals from the film emulsion, allowing the image to be stable and not affected by light exposure. Following the fixing stage, the next step is washing. This step is essential because it helps to remove any residual chemicals, including fixers, from the film. Washing ensures that the film is clean and ready for further treatment or drying, which preserves the quality of the developed image and prevents any potential degradation from remaining chemical residues. Ensuring that the film is thoroughly washed contributes to the longevity and clarity of the final product. This process is foundational in photographic practices, providing the basis for producing high-quality images that can be reproduced without artifacts or faults.