Why are fiber optic cables preferred for long-distance data transmission?

Fiber optic cables are preferred for long-distance data transmission primarily due to their lower attenuation and higher bandwidth capabilities.

Lower attenuation refers to the loss of signal strength over distance. Fiber optic cables experience significantly less signal loss compared to copper cables. This characteristic allows signals to travel longer distances without the need for frequent repeaters or amplifiers, making fiber optics highly effective for long-range communications.

Additionally, fiber optics can support higher bandwidths, which means they can carry more data at faster speeds simultaneously. This combination of low attenuation and high bandwidth makes fiber optic technology ideal for applications that demand extensive data transfer over long distances, such as internet backbones, telecommunications, and large-scale network infrastructure.

In contrast, other options like cost-effectiveness and flexibility do not provide the same level of benefit in the context of long-distance transmission. While fiber cables may be more expensive upfront compared to copper, their long-term performance and reduced maintenance needs justify the investment.