What is meant by “radiographic film fog”?

"Radiographic film fog" refers to unwanted exposure that leads to a decrease in image contrast on the film. In radiography, achieving high contrast is essential for distinguishing between different materials or defects within an object being inspected. When film fog occurs, it results from various factors such as light leaks, stray radiation, or improper storage conditions, which expose the film unintentionally. This unintended exposure makes the film appear more uniformly gray, diminishing the ability to discern fine details. Therefore, the presence of fog compromises the radiographic quality and interpretability, making it crucial to minimize the chances of fogging to ensure accurate imaging results.