Xerography

Definition

Xerography is a dry photocopying technique based on electrostatics. It uses photoconductive materials to form images with the help of static electric charges.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Xerography relies on the principles of electrostatics, particularly the attraction and repulsion of charged particles.
2. A photoconductive surface in xerography becomes conductive when exposed to light, allowing it to hold an electrostatic charge pattern.
3. The process involves charging a drum or belt, exposing it to light reflected from an image, and then developing the latent image using toner particles.
4. The toner particles are attracted to the charged areas of the photoconductive surface and are then transferred onto paper.
5. Heat is applied in the final step to fuse the toner particles onto the paper, creating a permanent image.

Review Questions

• What role does a photoconductive surface play in xerography?
• How do electrostatic forces contribute to the formation of images in xerography?
• What is the purpose of applying heat at the end of the xerographic process?

Related terms

Electrostatic Charge: A stationary electric charge typically produced by friction that causes objects to attract or repel each other.

Photoconductor: A material that becomes electrically conductive when exposed to light, crucial for forming latent images in xerography.

Toner:

Powdered ink used in xerographic printers and copiers that forms images by being attracted to charged areas on a photoconductive surface.