What characterizes chromatic distortion in optics?

Chromatic distortion in optics is characterized by blurred multicolored edges, which occurs due to the different wavelengths of light being refracted by various amounts as they pass through a lens. This phenomenon arises because lenses do not have the same refractive index for all wavelengths of visible light. As a result, colors can separate and create color fringes around objects. This is particularly noticeable when looking at high-contrast images or when objects are sharply defined. Therefore, the presence of blurred multicolored edges is a clear indication of chromatic distortion, highlighting how this optical aberration impacts the clarity and quality of the image perceived.

In contrast, increased brightness, equal focus, and loss of visibility do not specifically pertain to the characteristic effects caused by chromatic distortion. Increased brightness may enhance overall visibility but does not indicate the presence of color separation. Equal focus relates to an optical system's ability to maintain clear images across various distances rather than distortion effects. Loss of visibility would imply a general compromise in image quality that doesn't specifically point to chromatic effects. Each of these aspects may relate to other optical issues but not directly to the unique implications of chromatic distortion.