An advanced computer sends information to its various parts via infrared light p

Question

An advanced computer sends information to its various parts via infrared light pulses traveling through silicon fibers (n=3.50). To acquire data from memory, the central processing unit sends a light-pulse request to the memory unit. The memory unit processes the request, then sends a data pulse back to the central processing unit. The memory unit takes 0.51 ns to process a request.

If the information has to be obtained from memory in 2.07 ns , what is the maximum distance the memory unit can be from the central processing unit? (In cm)

Explanation / Answer

speed of light = 3x 10^8 m/s /3.5= 8.57 x 10^7 m/s

total time light travels= 2.07-0.51= 1.56ns

one way distance it travels 1.56ns/2=0.78 ns= 0.78 x 10^-9 s

maximum distance = 8.57 x 10^7 x 0.78 x 10^-9 = 6.6846 x 10^-2 m =6.6846 cm

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