Fiber

As light passes through a fiber optic cable, its intensity (I) diminishes as the length of the cable (L) increases. The relationship is described by an exponential function:

I = A·10-kL, where k is a positive constant

Subject: Algebra
Topics: Exponential Equations and Functions
Grades: 9 - 12
Knowledge and Skills:
- Can determine the equation of an exponential function that closely matches a set of points

Download Teacher Guide: Fiber (PDF)
Download Student Activity: Fiber (PDF)

Algebra in the Real World Movie:

Communication at the Speed of LightCommunication at the Speed of Light

Tiny glass filaments carry so much information that all the books ever written could be transmitted over a single fiber optic cable in a few seconds. This technology is at the heart of 21st century communications systems.
Running time 1:44 minutes.

Watch the Movie