electrofotográfiás

Electrofotográfiás is a term derived from Greek roots, combining "ēlektron" (amber, electricity), "photos" (light), and "graphein" (to write). It refers to the process of creating an image by the action of light on an electrically charged surface. This phenomenon is the fundamental principle behind xerography, commonly known as photocopying, and electrophotography in general.

The process typically involves several key steps. First, a photoconductive material, often a semiconductor like selenium or amorphous silicon, is uniformly charged. This charging is usually done in the dark to ensure an even electrostatic potential across the surface. Next, an image of the original document is projected onto the charged surface. Where light strikes the photoconductor, its electrical resistance decreases, causing the charge in those areas to dissipate. Areas that remain in shadow retain their charge, forming an electrostatic latent image.

Following the image formation, a charged dry ink powder, called toner, is cascaded over the photoconductive surface. The toner particles are attracted to the charged areas of the latent image, adhering to them while being repelled by the discharged areas. This toner image is then transferred to a sheet of paper, which is also given an electrostatic charge to facilitate the attraction. Finally, the toner is fused to the paper, usually with heat and pressure, creating a permanent image. This electrophotographic process has revolutionized document reproduction and is a cornerstone of modern printing technology.