Final answer:
In optical fiber communication systems, it is important to always treat an optical fiber as if it is coupled to a laser, unless you can be sure that the fiber is not coupled to a laser.
Step-by-step explanation:
Fiber optics, or optical fiber, refers to the technology that transmits information as light pulses along a glass or plastic fiber. A fiber optic cable can contain a varying number of glass fibers, from a few up to a couple hundred. Another glass layer called cladding surrounds the glass fiber core.
In optical fiber communication systems, it is important to always treat an optical fiber as if it is coupled to a laser, unless you can be sure that the fiber is not coupled to a laser. Optical fibers are commonly used to carry signals for telephone conversations and internet communications.
They can be made so transparent that light can travel long distances with low loss, and lasers emit light with high bandwidth, allowing for more conversations in one fiber compared to electric signals on a single conductor. To ensure safety and proper functioning, it is best to assume that an optical fiber is always coupled to a laser unless proven otherwise.