distorsion

Distorsion, or distortion, is the deviation of a signal, image, or other representation from its original form as a result of the processing, transmission, or measurement process. While the term is used across disciplines, the specific causes and manifestations vary by field. In many contexts, distortion is analyzed and quantified to assess fidelity and to guide correction.

In electronics and audio, distortion occurs when a system's output is a nonlinear function of its input. Common forms include harmonic distortion, intermodulation distortion, and clipping. Distortion is quantified by metrics such as total harmonic distortion (THD) and intermodulation distortion (IMD). Reducing distortion relies on linear design, negative feedback, proper gain structure, and adequate headroom.

In optics and imaging, distortion refers to geometric deviations from a perfect scene, often due to lens properties. Barrel and pincushion distortion are common radial types, while perspective distortion arises from projection. Correction uses camera calibration, distortion coefficients, and image remapping.

In communications and data transmission, distortion describes alterations caused by channel effects like attenuation, dispersion, and phase shift. Equalization, error correction codes, and bandwidth management are used to mitigate these effects and preserve signal integrity.

In perception and media, distortion also appears as artifacts from compression, sampling, or display limits, affecting perceived quality without fully altering the original signal. Distorsion is thus a broad term linking technical measurement with the practical fidelity of representations.