What type of dispersion is the sum of modal dispersion and chromatic dispersion in optical fibers?

The correct choice represents the combination of different types of dispersion that occur in optical fibers. Total dispersion encompasses both modal dispersion, which arises from different modes of light traveling at varying speeds through multimode fibers, and chromatic dispersion, caused by the different speeds of light wavelengths traveling through the fiber. Together, these dispersive effects affect the overall bandwidth and signal integrity in optical communications.

Understanding total dispersion is essential for engineers and technicians working with optical fiber systems, as it directly impacts the performance of the fiber. Accurately calculating and managing total dispersion is crucial to designing efficient fiber optic networks that minimize signal degradation over distances.

The other options do not correctly reflect the combination discussed. Statistical dispersion refers to a measure of variability within a random variable, inter-symbol interference pertains to the distortion that occurs when signals overlap, and excessive dispersion is not a standardized term used for describing the sum of modal and chromatic dispersion. Hence, the term total dispersion is the most precise in this context.