What term describes the use of fiber strands to transmit and receive optical signals in a cable?

• A. Fiber
• B. Cable
• C. Waveguide
• D. Optical Fiber

Answer: (A)

The main idea is the medium that carries the light signals in a fiber-optic link. Fiber refers to the thin strands of glass or plastic that guide light, forming the actual pathway for transmitted and received optical signals inside a cable. Light travels through the core of these strands and is kept within by total internal reflection at the boundary with the cladding, enabling high-bandwidth communication over long distances. While the term optical fiber is also correct in describing the technology, the question focuses on the medium used to carry the signals, which is best described simply as fiber. The other terms describe broader concepts: a cable is the assembled bundle that may contain fibers, a waveguide is a general term for guiding waves (not specific to fiber in typical networks), and optical fiber emphasizes the technology rather than the medium per se.