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British embassies in Europe are to be connected to a new long-distance communication link - AQA - A-Level Physics - Question 5 - 2020 - Paper 8
Question 5
British embassies in Europe are to be connected to a new long-distance communication link. The link, in the form of a land-based cable, will support multiple simulta... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:British embassies in Europe are to be connected to a new long-distance communication link - AQA - A-Level Physics - Question 5 - 2020 - Paper 8
Step 1
Compare the advantages and disadvantages of the two options for use in these cables - Optic Fibre
Answer
Optic fibre cables have several advantages:
- Physical Properties: Optic fibres are lighter and thinner than copper cables, making installation easier. They are also less prone to corrosion.
- Ability to Reject External Interference: Optic fibres are immune to electromagnetic interference (EMI), making them suitable for environments with external electrical noise.
- Signal-Carrying Properties: Optic fibre cables can transmit data over longer distances without signal degradation, supporting higher bandwidth.
However, there are some disadvantages:
- Cost: Generally, optic fibre cables are more expensive than copper cables when considering initial installation.
- Fragility: They are more delicate and can be more challenging to handle and install.
Step 2
Compare the advantages and disadvantages of the two options for use in these cables - Copper Wire
Answer
Copper wires also have their set of benefits:
- Physical Properties: Copper is robust and can withstand harsher conditions; it is easier to work with and splice.
- Cost: Copper wires are typically less expensive than optic fibre options, making them more budget-friendly initially.
- Signal-Carrying Properties: Though they support lower bandwidth, copper wires can effectively handle voice communication and video under certain conditions.
The disadvantages include:
- Interference: Copper is susceptible to EMI, leading to potential data loss in electrically noisy environments.
- Distance Limitation: They have a shorter maximum transmission distance compared to optic fibres, which can degrade the signal over long runs.
Step 3
State which option you would advise the company to use.
Answer
Given the need for high-speed, secure communication for the embassies, I would advise the company to use optic fibre cables. Despite the higher initial cost, their superior performance in terms of bandwidth and resistance to interference makes them a more suitable choice for the transmission of sensitive government data and simultaneous video conferencing.