Pearl Gethi

Nature's Fiber Optic Connections: Exploring Polar Bear Fur

Introduction: When a beam of light encounters a boundary between two different media, such as glass and plastic or plastic and air, a portion of the light may be reflected. However, if the light travels through a denser medium and strikes the boundary at a shallow angle, all of the light can reflect. This phenomenon, known as total internal reflection, has fascinating implications. Notably, it has led researchers to consider the possibility of fiber optic connections existing in nature. Could animals like polar bears unintentionally possess their own version of fiber optic cables? In this essay, we will delve into the intriguing characteristics of polar bear fur and explore how it may exhibit properties reminiscent of fiber optics.