What is the last stage of the laser printing process that ensures toner is melted to the paper?

The last stage of the laser printing process where toner is fused to the paper is known as the fusing stage. During this phase, the printer uses heat and pressure to melt the toner particles and bond them to the paper fibers. This is essential because, without this step, the toner would not adhere properly, resulting in smudged or easily removable prints.

In the fusing process, a combination of a fuser assembly, which includes heated rollers and a pressure mechanism, ensures that the toner becomes a permanent part of the printed image. The heat activates the polymers in the toner, allowing it to melt and penetrate the paper's surface, creating a durable and lasting print.

The other stages, such as writing, transfer, and cooling, serve different roles in the printing process. Writing involves creating the image on the drum, transfer is the phase where the toner is moved from the drum to the paper, and cooling occurs after fusing to allow the paper to return to a stable state. However, it is the fusing stage that is critical for ensuring the toner bonds effectively to the paper, making it the correct answer.