What component of an optical modulation system is responsible for detecting light signals and demodulating them?

The optical receiver is the component of an optical modulation system that is responsible for detecting light signals and demodulating them. This process involves converting the optical signals that have been transmitted through fiber optics back into electrical signals, which can then be processed and interpreted.

The optical receiver typically contains one or more photodetectors that are sensitive to the wavelengths of light being used in the communication system. When light signals enter the receiver, the photodetectors generate an electrical current proportional to the amount of light received. This electrical signal is then processed to extract the information that was originally encoded in the light, effectively demodulating the signal.

Understanding the role of the optical receiver is crucial, as it is a central component in ensuring effective communication over fiber optic networks. Other components listed in the options serve different functions: the optical transmitter is responsible for sending the light signals, the optical amplifier boosts signal strength but does not handle detection, and the optical modulator is involved in encoding information onto the light signal during transmission.