What is crosstalk in telecommunications?

Crosstalk in telecommunications refers to unwanted transfer of signals between communication channels. This occurs when a signal from one circuit interferes with another circuit, typically due to the proximity of wiring or components. In this context, the correct choice accurately characterizes crosstalk as a disturbance that arises from external electric or magnetic fields, which can cause interference and degrade the quality of the intended signal.

While boosting signal strength or methods of enhancing it can be beneficial for communication systems, they do not capture the essence of crosstalk. The degradation of signal strength, although it can be a consequence of crosstalk, does not define what crosstalk actually is; it is the interference caused by neighboring signals that creates the disturbance, rather than a direct loss of strength. Therefore, the emphasis on crosstalk as a disturbance from electric or magnetic fields accurately conveys the nature of the issue in telecommunications systems.