What principle do fiber-optic cables utilize for data transmission?

Fiber-optic cables utilize the principle of reflection of light for data transmission. This technology takes advantage of the phenomenon known as total internal reflection, which occurs when light travels through a medium (in this case, glass or plastic fibers) and hits the interface of another medium at a specific angle. When the light is transmitted through the core of the fiber, it reflects off the inner walls of the fiber without leaking out, allowing signals to be transmitted over long distances with minimal loss and high bandwidth.

This method is particularly effective for data transmission because it enables high-speed communication over significant distances compared to other technologies that rely on electromagnetic waves (like copper cables), radio signals, or sound waves. The capacity for transmitting large amounts of data with lower attenuation and less interference makes fiber optics a preferred choice for modern networking infrastructures.

Understanding this concept is crucial for those studying information technology, as it highlights the fundamentals of how data is transferred in communications systems.