Daily Current Affairs : 31-October-2023

Photocopying is a widely used technique for duplicating content using light, with the term ‘photocopying’ commonly associated with xerography. Xerography, originating from the Greek word ‘xero’ meaning ‘dry,’ is a method devoid of messy liquid chemicals, making it efficient and convenient.

Basic Elements of Xerography: How It Works
  1. Photoconductive Surface:
    • A surface coated with a photoconductive material is used.
    • When exposed to light, this material allows the flow of electrons, creating conductivity.
    • A negatively charged wire and bright light are employed to mark the areas on the paper to be copied.
  2. Application of Toner:
    • Positively charged toner powder is applied to the surface.
    • The toner settles where negative charges persist, forming a pattern.
    • The surface transfers the toner pattern onto a sheet of paper, guided by the negative charge.
  3. Final Result:
    • The toner is heated and fused with the paper, completing the process within seconds.
    • Modern machines use rotating drums, flashing lights, or moving scanners for increased efficiency.
Invention and Development of Xerography: A Historical Perspective

Xerography, in its rudimentary form, was invented by American attorney Chester F. Carlson in 1938. Later, the Battelle Memorial Institute in Ohio refined the technique after Carlson sold his idea to them in 1945. In 1946, Haloid Photographic Company obtained a license from Battelle to build machines based on this technique. The first model was made available for sale in 1949, trademarked as the “Xerox machine.” Haloid’s managers coined the term ‘xerography,’ replacing Carlson’s original term ‘electrophotography.’

Important Points:
  • Photocopying is a widely used technique for duplicating content using light, with the term ‘photocopying’ commonly associated with xerography.
  • Xerography, originating from the Greek word ‘xero’ meaning ‘dry,’ is a method devoid of messy liquid chemicals, making it efficient and convenient.
  • Basic elements of xerography include a photoconductive surface coated with a material allowing electron flow when exposed to light, a negatively charged wire and bright light used to mark areas on the paper to be copied, application of positively charged toner powder settling on negatively charged areas, and heating and fusing the toner with the paper to complete the process.
  • Modern xerography machines use rotating drums, flashing lights, or moving scanners for increased efficiency.
  • Xerography was invented by American attorney Chester F. Carlson in 1938 and was refined by the Battelle Memorial Institute in Ohio after Carlson sold his idea to them in 1945.
  • In 1946, Haloid Photographic Company obtained a license from Battelle to build machines based on xerography, and the first model was made available for sale in 1949, trademarked as the “Xerox machine.”
  • Haloid’s managers coined the term ‘xerography,’ replacing Carlson’s original term ‘electrophotography.’
  • Xerography revolutionized the way printed materials are reproduced globally, becoming a cornerstone of office technology due to its simplicity, speed, and cost-effectiveness.
Why In News

Xerographic machines are in ubiquitous use around the world today to quickly and cheaply reproduce printed material, revolutionizing the way businesses and individuals share information while promoting environmental sustainability.

MCQs about Xerography

  1. What does the term ‘xerography’ specifically refer to in the context of photocopying?
    A) Duplicating content using liquid chemicals
    B) Reproduction technique using light and dry processes
    C) Traditional method of printing documents
    D) Copying using messy chemicals and wet surfaces
    Correct Answer: B) Reproduction technique using light and dry processes
    Explanation: Xerography refers to the reproduction technique using light and dry processes, distinct from methods involving messy liquid chemicals.
  2. What is the purpose of the photoconductive surface in xerography?
    A) Blocks the flow of electrons
    B) Allows the flow of electrons in the dark
    C) Conducts electricity when exposed to light
    D) Reflects light onto the paper
    Correct Answer: C) Conducts electricity when exposed to light
    Explanation: The photoconductive surface conducts electricity when exposed to light, allowing the flow of electrons through illuminated areas.
  3. What is the role of toner in the xerographic process?
    A) Blocks negative charges on the surface
    B) Enhances the brightness of the copied image
    C) Melts and fuses with the paper, creating the final copy
    D) Removes excess moisture from the surface
    Correct Answer: C) Melts and fuses with the paper, creating the final copy
    Explanation: Toner, a powdery substance, melts and fuses with the paper, forming the final copy after being transferred from the photoconductive surface.

Boost up your confidence by appearing our Weekly Current Affairs Multiple Choice Questions

Loading