Explore the key concepts, operating principles, and benefits of optical fiber communication systems. This quiz aims to enhance understanding of light transmission, fiber types, signal loss, and why optical fiber is preferred in modern telecommunication networks.
In optical fiber communication, what physical phenomenon allows light to remain trapped and transmitted through the core over long distances?
Explanation: Total internal reflection keeps the light confined within the fiber core, allowing the signal to travel great distances with minimal loss. Simple refraction refers to the bending of light at interfaces, which does not guarantee continuous confinement. Diffraction is the spreading of light, which can lead to signal loss, not confinement. Polarization is related to the orientation of light waves, but is not the primary mechanism for light guidance in fibers.
Which type of optical fiber is typically used for high-speed, long-distance data transmission because it largely eliminates modal dispersion?
Explanation: Single-mode fiber allows light to propagate in only one mode, reducing modal dispersion and making it ideal for high-speed, long-distance communication. Multi-mode fiber supports multiple paths and typically has greater dispersion, which limits its range and data rate. Hybrid fiber is not a standard classification. Step-index fiber refers to a specific refractive index profile, but it is not necessarily single-mode.
What is the main source of signal loss (attenuation) in optical fibers during transmission?
Explanation: The primary cause of attenuation in optical fibers is absorption by impurities within the glass, which converts some of the light energy to heat. Electrical interference does not affect optical fibers because they transmit light, not electricity. Poor connector alignment and excessive bending contribute to loss, but the fundamental, ongoing loss across the fiber itself is mostly due to absorption.
Which is a key advantage of using optical fibers instead of copper cables for data transmission in telecommunication networks?
Explanation: Optical fibers transmit light, making them immune to electromagnetic interference, which is a significant issue with copper cables. They do not conduct electricity, so higher electrical conductivity is not relevant. Installation costs for fiber are often higher than for copper. While fibers are flexible, they are not designed for sharp bending, which can damage them.
How does the bandwidth of optical fiber compare with that of conventional metal wire (copper) communication systems?
Explanation: Optical fibers can support extremely high bandwidths, allowing for faster and more data-intensive communications than copper wires. Copper wires have significantly lower bandwidth and are more susceptible to external noise. The option stating identical bandwidths is incorrect as their performance differs. Limiting fiber to audio frequencies is a common misconception; in reality, fibers handle data from audio to high-frequency optical signals.