How does frequency division multiplexing (FDM) enable multiple signals to share a common medium?

Frequency division multiplexing (FDM) allows multiple signals to share a common medium by assigning each signal a specific frequency or band of frequencies known as a channel. This methodology effectively divides the available bandwidth into separate frequency bands, enabling simultaneous transmission of multiple signals without interference.

Each channel operates at a distinct frequency, ensuring that signals do not overlap and that they can be easily separated at the receiving end using filters. This approach is particularly beneficial in applications like radio broadcasting, where various stations occupy different frequency ranges within the same medium.

The other options describe different techniques that do not directly relate to how FDM functions. For instance, converting signals into packets pertains to packet-switching methods used in digital communications, which is a different technique than what FDM employs. Similarly, compressing data is more about maximizing data efficiency rather than facilitating simultaneous transmissions over a shared medium. Lastly, using only one frequency for all signals would contradict the fundamental principle of FDM, which is to utilize multiple frequencies to avoid signal interference and allow for multiplexing.