What can inadequate fixing time lead to in a processed film?

Inadequate fixing time in the processing of radiographic films can indeed lead to possible fading of the image. During the fixing stage, unexposed silver halide crystals are removed from the film emulsion. If the fixing time is insufficient, these unexposed crystals may not be adequately eliminated, which means that the film could be sensitive to light and other environmental factors. This unreduced silver halide can result in a fading effect, where the clarity and detail of the film image diminish over time, ultimately leading to diagnostically unacceptable images. This aspect highlights the importance of adhering to proper fixing protocols to ensure the longevity and accuracy of radiographic images.