What is the effect of optical fiber attenuation in relation to cable length?

The correct response highlights that the effect of optical fiber attenuation is proportional to cable length. Attenuation refers to the loss of signal strength as it travels through the fiber optic cable, and this loss increases linearly with the length of the cable.

As the distance between the transmitter and receiver increases, the light signal within the fiber experiences scattering, absorption, and other forms of loss, which cumulatively result in a decrease in the signal's power level. Therefore, the longer the fiber optic cable run, the greater the total attenuation measured. This principle underscores the importance of understanding cable length in optical network design and installation, as it directly affects the quality and integrity of the signal being transmitted.

When designing a fiber installation, one must carefully consider attenuation to ensure that signal degradation does not exceed acceptable levels for the intended application, often determined by factors such as the type of fiber used and the specific wavelengths of light being transmitted. This understanding is vital for optimizing performance in telecommunications and data networks.