The image present on the film emulsion after exposure and before processing is called:

The term that describes the image present on the film emulsion after exposure and before processing is referred to as the latent image. This latent image is created when the film is exposed to radiation, such as X-rays, causing a chemical change in the silver halide crystals within the emulsion. However, this image remains invisible until the film undergoes the development process, where the latent image is converted into a visible image through chemical reactions.

The distinction of the latent image is crucial in imaging science, as it represents the initial stage of image formation on film. It contrasts with the visible image, which can be actually seen after processing. Other terms, such as "manifest image" or "laser image," do not accurately describe this phase of imaging; the manifest image refers to the final developed image that can be viewed, while a laser image pertains to images produced from laser technology, which is not applicable in this context.