What increases the sensitivity of the film when it is exposed?

Latensification refers to the process through which the latent image on film becomes more pronounced after exposure to radiation. This involves altering the physical properties of the film's emulsion or the size and distribution of the silver halide crystals within it. By optimizing these variables, latensification enhances the film's sensitivity during the exposure phase, enabling it to react more effectively to lower levels of radiation. This is particularly important in imaging systems, as increased sensitivity allows for better quality images under varying exposure conditions, effectively reducing the necessary dose required to generate an adequate image.

In contrast, the other processes mentioned do not play a direct role in increasing film sensitivity to exposure. Hydrolysis primarily refers to the chemical breakdown of a compound due to reaction with water, which does not affect the film's sensitivity in the context of exposure. Heliumesis is not a recognized term in the field of imaging or photography. Emulsification typically relates to the process of mixing two immiscible liquids, which does not pertain to enhancing sensitivity in film exposure.