What is the significance of "core-cladding" structure in fiber optics?

The core-cladding structure in fiber optics is critical because it facilitates total internal reflection, which is essential for guiding light along the fiber. The core, which is made of a material with a higher refractive index than the cladding surrounding it, enables light to be transmitted over long distances without significant loss. When light travels through the core and hits the boundary with the cladding at a certain angle, it is reflected back into the core instead of escaping. This principle of total internal reflection ensures that light remains contained within the core of the fiber, allowing for efficient transmission and minimal signal loss. The effectiveness of this structure is what makes fiber optics a preferred choice for high-speed data communication.

While durability, signal attenuation, and bandwidth are all important factors in fiber optics, they relate to other aspects of fiber design and materials rather than the core-cladding mechanism specifically.