Question

The energy attenuation in optical fiber is mainly due to (A) absorption (B) scattering (C) both a and \(\mathrm{b}\) (D) neither absorption nor scattering

Short answer

The energy attenuation in optical fiber is mainly due to both absorption and scattering. Absorption occurs when the light signal's energy is absorbed by the materials in the fiber, whereas scattering occurs when the light signal interacts with the material's microstructure, causing the light to change directions. Therefore, the correct answer is (C) both a and b.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding energy attenuation in optical fibers

Optical fibers are used as a medium for transmitting signals in the form of light. Energy attenuation is the decrease in signal strength or optical power (measured in dB) as it travels through the fiber. There are several reasons for this attenuation, among which absorption and scattering are the primary factors to be considered.

Analyzing absorption

Absorption in optical fibers occurs when the light signal's energy is absorbed by the materials in the fiber, such as the silica glass or the dopants added to the core. As the light travels through the fiber, some of its photons get adsorbed by the atomic structure of the material, ultimately leading to a decrease in signal strength.

Analyzing scattering

Scattering in optical fibers occurs when the light signal interacts with the material's microstructure, causing the light to change directions. There are mainly two types of scattering: Rayleigh scattering, which is caused by the random fluctuations in the glass material's refractive index; and Mie scattering, which is caused by impurities and inhomogeneities in the glass material. Both types of scattering contribute to the attenuation of the light signal as it travels through the fiber.

Comparing the answer choices

Now, let's analyze the answer choices given in the exercise: (A) absorption (B) scattering (C) both a and b (D) neither absorption nor scattering As explained in Steps 2 and 3, both absorption and scattering are significant factors contributing to the energy attenuation in optical fibers. Therefore, the correct answer is: (C) both a and b