What is the role of the fiber optic cladding?

The correct answer focuses on the vital function of the cladding in a fiber optic cable, which is to reflect light back into the core. The cladding is made from a material that has a lower refractive index than the core, creating total internal reflection. When light traveling through the core encounters the boundary between the core and the cladding, it is reflected back into the core rather than passing through. This mechanism is what allows the fiber to effectively transmit light signals over long distances.

The role of cladding in reflecting light is crucial for maintaining signal integrity and minimizing loss; without it, light signals could leak out of the fiber, resulting in diminished signal quality and increased attenuation. This reflection process is what enables fiber optics to achieve the high data rates and capacity they are known for.