Which of the following is a common artifact in radiographic images?

Motion blur is a common artifact observed in radiographic images, primarily caused by patient movement during the exposure. When the acquiring image process overlaps with any motion, it can result in a blurred appearance, making it difficult to evaluate the details of the tissues or structures being imaged. This artifact typically arises in situations where exposure times are longer, for instance, in radiography of areas needing higher detail or when the subject moves unexpectedly, leading to a lack of sharpness in the image.

In contrast, radiographic contrast refers to the difference in density between adjacent regions in an image and is a desired quality rather than an artifact. Patient overexposure relates to excessive exposure to radiation, which can lead to images that may appear overly dark or bright but isn't classified as an artifact. Finally, image distortion arises from factors such as angling of the x-ray beam or incorrect positioning of the patient, but it is less common than motion blur in routine imaging scenarios. Thus, motion blur stands out as a prevalent issue affecting radiographic quality.