What is the core of a fiber optic cable?

The core of a fiber optic cable is the part that carries the light signal. It is typically made from glass or plastic and is designed to have a higher refractive index compared to the surrounding cladding. This difference in refractive indices allows light to be guided along the core through a process called total internal reflection. The core's function is crucial as it directly influences the performance of the fiber optic system, impacting factors such as signal quality and transmission distance. The efficiency and clarity of the transmitted light signal are primarily determined by the characteristics of the core, which underscores its importance in fiber optic technology.

The other options refer to components of fiber optic cables but do not define the core. The outer layer protects the cable and ensures durability. Connectors are essential for linking two segments of fiber but do not transmit signals. There is no functional component in standard fiber optics that directly absorbs excess light, as all transmitted light should ideally propagate through the core.