I usually use a 'normal' dilution Stop Bath while developing...but, a new film I've been trying suggests water for the Stop, first few runs I tried an extremely light iflostop/water dilution....

But, this last time (minutes ago) I decided to try straight water as the Stop (as recommended) - while sitting in the dark, I began to wonder what the effects of using straight water as a stop are....essentially the developer is only 'diluted/diffused' not 'stopped'....

So what part of the negative is the 'diluted/diffused' developer working on while in the plain water stop bath?

My guess would be that the 'diluted/diffused' developer would continue to work on the highlights, in similar fashion to a water bath during development, but would like a few opinions if possible....

Thanks,
Dan