What type of waveform is produced when a sine wave is distorted?

When a sine wave is distorted, the resulting waveform is referred to as a complex waveform. This occurs because distortion introduces additional frequencies and harmonics that alter the smooth, periodic nature of the original sine wave. As a sine wave experiences distortion—whether through clipping, overdriving, or modulating—it loses its pure sinusoidal shape and acquires new characteristics that encompass a broader spectrum of frequencies.

Complex waveforms can be thought of as a combination of multiple sine waves of different frequencies and amplitudes, effectively representing the harmonic content introduced by the distortion. Instead of retaining the simple single frequency of the original sine wave, the complex waveform reflects this added complexity, leading to richer sounds or shapes that are typical in audio processing and other applications where waveforms are manipulated.

The other options—triangular, square, and rectangular waveforms—represent specific shapes that do not describe the nature of a distorted sine wave. Triangular and square waveforms have their own distinct harmonic structures and are not directly derived from sine wave distortion. Thus, these types do not accurately capture the essence of a distorted sine wave. The correct answer emphasizes the complexity and the harmonic richness that emerges when a simple sine wave is subjected to distortion.