What is the result of inadequate agitation during film processing?

Inadequate agitation during film processing primarily leads to the potential for air bubbles. When films are processed, the developer must be evenly distributed to ensure uniform development of the film. If agitation is insufficient, areas of the film may not be adequately coated with the developer or fixer, which can trap air and create bubbles on the film surface. These bubbles can interfere with the even development of the image, leading to uneven exposure and potentially ruining the radiograph.

Other aspects related to inadequate agitation highlight why this is significant. Increased development times may occur as a result of not agitating properly, but this is not a direct consequence of agitation itself. Improved image contrast or reduction in processing time do not relate directly to inadequate agitation because these outcomes depend on consistent and proper processing techniques.