What is a common issue that can occur with fiber optic cables when exposed to chemicals?

When fiber optic cables are exposed to chemicals, one of the most common issues that arises is physical damage to the cable's outer shell. The outer shell, typically made from materials that can be sensitive to certain chemicals, may degrade or deteriorate upon contact with corrosive substances. This can lead to various types of damage, such as cracking, peeling, or even complete failure of the protective layer. Once the outer shell is compromised, the inner fiber can become exposed to moisture and contaminants, which significantly affects the cable's performance and longevity.

In contrast, other options do not accurately reflect how fiber optic cables behave when exposed to chemicals. For instance, increased signal speed and improved communication quality would suggest an enhancement of the fiber's capabilities, which is not a reality when its structural integrity is compromised. Strengthening of the fiber core is also misleading, as chemical exposure tends to weaken rather than strengthen the components of the cable. Therefore, physical damage to the cable's outer shell accurately captures the vulnerability of fiber optic technology in the presence of harmful substances.