Distorsions

Distorsions are deviations from an original reference that appear across many disciplines. The term covers alterations to physical signals, visual representations, data, and even perception or interpretation. Distorsions can arise from imperfect tools, environmental conditions, or intentional design, and they may be corrected or exploited depending on the context.

In optics and imaging, distortions include geometric effects such as barrel and pincushion distortion, perspective distortion, and radial distortion, as well as chromatic aberration. Camera calibration and lens profiling are common methods to quantify and correct these effects, either during capture or in post-processing.

In audio and signal processing, distortion refers to any alteration of the original waveform. Nonlinear distortion produces harmonics and intermodulation products; clipping and quantization add unwanted components. Measurements such as total harmonic distortion (THD) and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) assess quality. Design choices, filtering, and proper amplification seek to minimize unwanted distortion.

In telecommunications and data systems, distortion describes changes to a signal as it propagates through a channel, due to characteristics of the medium, attenuation, or interference. Techniques such as equalization, modulation choices, and error-correcting codes are used to compensate for predictable distortions and preserve data integrity.

In psychology, cognitive distortions are systematic patterns of faulty or biased thinking that affect judgments and emotions. Examples include all-or-nothing thinking, catastrophizing, and overgeneralization. Recognition and reframing of these distortions are central to certain therapeutic approaches.