Final answer:
The source of sound that is diegetic but distorted for dramatic effect, such as an unnaturally loud scream, is classified as Distorted diegetic sound (a).
Step-by-step explanation:
The scenario described in the question refers to a technique used in film and theatre where the source of the sound is diegetic, meaning it originates from the on-screen or onstage world of the characters, but it is distorted to create a dramatized effect for the audience. This form of sound manipulation is specifically designed to be disconnected from the internal state of a character.
An example given is an unnaturally loud and electronically distorted scream meant to startle the audience. Therefore, the correct option to classify this type of sound design is (a) Distorted diegetic sound.
Diegetic sound is a type of sound that the characters within a film or theater production can hear. It is often used to provide context and authenticity to the story being told on-screen or on-stage.
When such sound is amplified or altered in a way that does not reflect the natural environment or the characters' emotions but is instead used to impact the audience directly, it can be termed as distorted diegetic sound. Such distortion is often used to heighten the sense of drama or to create a specific, heightened audience response.