The inactivity of ascorbates in low pH does not apply to superadditive mixtures. The ascorbates are superaditive with phenidone, p-aminophenol, metol and some others but not with hydroquinone. While sodium ascorbate alone needs pH like hydroquinone to ve active, it's a terrible developer by itself. At least, the isomer we can easily get is. Generally, the result of using ascorbate is a better combination of grain, speed and acutance, though any one of those things may not be so good. I have had HP5+ come out looking like FP4 + and I have had TMY come out with coarser grain than I am accustomed to, but with very nice gradations and plenty of speed, so its great for pictures of people doing things.(posted 8327 days ago)