When an active user interface component is selected or focused, what is the required contrast ratio?

The required contrast ratio of 3:1 for active user interface components, such as buttons or links that are selected or focused, aligns with accessibility guidelines designed to ensure that users, including those with visual impairments, can effectively interact with digital content.

This contrast ratio is significant because it enhances visibility and distinguishability, allowing users to easily see which element is currently active or selected on the screen. The 3:1 contrast ratio requirement is established in the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), which aim to create accessible content for people with disabilities. By adhering to this standard, developers can ensure that all users, especially those with low vision, have a clear visual indication of focus, which is essential for navigation and usability.

In comparison, options that suggest lower contrast ratios, such as 1:1 or 2:1, do not provide sufficient differentiation and could lead to confusion or difficulty in recognizing active elements. A contrast ratio higher than 3:1, while beneficial in certain contexts, is not mandated specifically for focused components, validating 3:1 as an effective and compliant choice for this scenario.