What does an off-center grid error typically result in?

An off-center grid error typically results in decreased exposure throughout the whole image. This occurs because the grid is designed to absorb scatter radiation and improve image contrast. When the x-ray beam is misaligned or the grid is not properly centered, some of the x-rays may either be absorbed incorrectly or allowed to pass through, leading to a reduction in the overall exposure to the image receptor.

In cases of an off-center grid alignment, the grid may not effectively reduce scatter as intended, and this misalignment often leads to a general decrease in the intensity of the radiation reaching the film or detector. This decreased exposure can manifest as an overall lighter image, which is indicative of the lack of sufficient x-ray photons hitting the receptor.

Uniform exposure across the image or increased exposure at one edge of the image wouldn't typically result from an off-center alignment; these scenarios would indicate different types of errors or issues. Severe underexposure at the center of the image would suggest a different kind of grid error or misalignment and is not generally characteristic of an off-center grid error.