The loss that results from poor polishing, cleaving, or cleaning is classified as extrinsic.

The loss that results from poor polishing, cleaving, or cleaning is classified as extrinsic.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not sure
• D. Both

Answer: (A)

In fiber optics, losses are categorized as intrinsic or extrinsic. Intrinsic losses come from the material itself—absorption and scattering within the glass. Extrinsic losses come from external factors, such as how the fiber ends are prepared and maintained. Poor polishing or cleaving leaves rough or angled end faces, which scatter light and reduce the amount that enters or exits the fiber, increasing insertion loss. Dirty or contaminated end faces also absorb or scatter light and degrade coupling efficiency. Since these issues arise from how the fiber is finished or handled rather than the inherent properties of the glass, they are extrinsic losses. So the statement is true.

In fiber optics, losses are categorized as intrinsic or extrinsic. Intrinsic losses come from the material itself—absorption and scattering within the glass. Extrinsic losses come from external factors, such as how the fiber ends are prepared and maintained. Poor polishing or cleaving leaves rough or angled end faces, which scatter light and reduce the amount that enters or exits the fiber, increasing insertion loss. Dirty or contaminated end faces also absorb or scatter light and degrade coupling efficiency. Since these issues arise from how the fiber is finished or handled rather than the inherent properties of the glass, they are extrinsic losses. So the statement is true.