Question

a team of engineers is tasked with developing a more efficient fiber - optic communication system. they decide to break the problem into smaller subproblems. one subproblem is to reduce signal loss over long distances. which approach is most likely the next step in solving this subproblem? design a new network infrastructure that is more reliable over long distances. test the fiber - optic cables in real - world conditions to measure signal loss. increase the power of the light source used in the system. identify and select materials that can transmit light with minimal signal loss.

Explanation:

To reduce signal loss over long distances in a fiber - optic communication system, the root cause often lies in the material properties of the fiber - optic cables. Identifying and selecting materials that can transmit light with minimal signal loss directly addresses the core issue. Designing a new network infrastructure (while it may have other benefits) does not specifically target signal loss reduction at the material level. Testing the cables in real - world conditions is more of an evaluation step rather than a solution - oriented next step for reducing loss. Increasing the power of the light source is a more brute - force approach and may not be the most efficient or effective long - term solution compared to using better materials.

Answer:

Identify and select materials that can transmit light with minimal signal loss.