What would cause a film to be too dark?

A film appearing too dark is primarily a result of overexposure. In radiology, overexposure occurs when the film is exposed to radiation for too long or to too much radiation intensity during the process. This excess exposure leads to a greater amount of latent image formation in the film emulsion, resulting in a darkened appearance once the film is developed.

The factors contributing to overexposure can include using incorrect exposure settings on the x-ray machine, failing to adequately adjust for body part thickness, or not adhering to the recommended exposure time. Understanding this concept is crucial for ensuring that diagnostic images are interpreted accurately, as films that are too dark may obscure important details necessary for proper analysis and diagnosis.