Which term describes the increase in the size of the image compared to the actual object?

Magnification is the term that describes the increase in the size of the image compared to the actual object. It refers to the process of enlarging the appearance of an object in an image, making it appear larger than its true size when viewed. This concept is fundamental in fields such as photography, microscopy, and imaging, where achieving a certain scale for visual interpretation is crucial.

In imaging, magnification can be quantitatively defined as the ratio of the size of the image to the size of the object, indicating how much larger the image appears compared to the original object. This property is essential for detailed analysis, allowing observers to see fine details that might not be visible at the object's real size.

Other terms, such as distortion, size reduction, and foreshortening, refer to different concepts. Distortion involves alterations to the image that can impact its accuracy without necessarily changing the size. Size reduction implies making the image smaller than the actual object, which contradicts magnification. Foreshortening specifically describes how an object appears shorter when viewed at an angle, rather than an increase in size.