Chapter 12, Problem 7STP

To determine

To choose the correct option: the process used to transmit light in optical fibers in among the options such as (A) diffuse reflection (B) total internal reflection (C) polarization (D) incandescence.

Answer to Problem 7STP

The correct option is (B).

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

Total internal reflection occurs when it strikes a medium boundary at an angle greater than the critical angle. Optical fibers use total internal reflection to transmit light. Optical fiber has a core surrounded by a transparent material with a low index of refraction. The light ray passing through the inner core is reflected back instead of being refracted to the rarer medium. The light is kept in the core by the phenomenon of total internal reflection.

In optical fibers, the light travels through the core which has high refractive index with constant reflection from the cladded material of low refractive index. The cladded material does not absorb any light from the core and the light wave can travel greater distances.

Conclusion:

Hence, the correct answer is (B).