Xerography

Definition

Xerography is a dry photocopying technique based on electrostatic charges. It utilizes a photoconductive surface and toner particles to produce copies of documents.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Xerography was invented by Chester Carlson in 1938.
2. The process involves charging a photoconductive drum to create an electrostatic image.
3. Light exposure discharges the photoconductive areas, forming a latent image.
4. Toner particles, which are electrically charged, adhere to the latent image on the drum.
5. The final step involves transferring the toner from the drum to paper and fusing it with heat.

Review Questions

• What role does the photoconductive drum play in xerography?
• How are toner particles used to form an image in xerography?
• What is the purpose of heating in the final step of xerography?

Related terms

Electrostatic Charge: An imbalance of electric charges within or on the surface of a material, causing forces between objects.

Photoconductor:

A material that becomes conductive when exposed to light but acts as an insulator in darkness.

Toner:

A powdery substance used in laser printers and photocopiers to form printed text and images on paper.