Waveguides and communication: On which optical principle do fibre-optic cables operate? Consider total internal reflection vs. other wave phenomena inside a high-index core and lower-index cladding. Choose the correct option.
IIT JEE
Physics
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
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AInterference of coherent beams
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BPolarization by selective absorption
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CScattering by Rayleigh centres
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DTotal internal reflection within the core–cladding structure
Answer
Correct Answer: Total internal reflection within the core–cladding structure
Explanation
ConceptLight launched at angles below the critical angle reflects entirely at the core–cladding boundary (ncore > nclad), guiding signals over long distances.
Final AnswerTotal internal reflection within the core–cladding structure