Question map
Internet communication uses optical fibre cables because of
Explanation
Internet communication relies on optical fibre cables primarily due to their high data carrying capacity, also known as bandwidth. Unlike traditional copper wires that use electrical signals, optical fibres transmit data as light pulses through thin strands of glass [t3][t6]. This technology allows for significantly higher bandwidth, enabling the transmission of large quantities of data rapidly and over long distances with minimal signal degradation [c1][t4]. While light in fibre travels at approximately 0.6 to 0.7 times the speed of light in a vacuum due to the refractive index of the glass medium, it is not "faster than light" [c3][t1]. The primary advantage remains the ability to carry massive amounts of data (Gbps to Tbps) simultaneously, making it the backbone of modern high-speed broadband and internet infrastructure [c2][t2][t8].
Sources
- [1] FUNDAMENTALS OF HUMAN GEOGRAPHY, CLASS XII (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 7: Transport and Communication > COMMUNICATIONS > p. 68
- [2] Indian Economy, Nitin Singhania .(ed 2nd 2021-22) > Chapter 15: Infrastructure > National Optical Fibre Network (NOFN) > p. 463
- [3] Science , class X (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 9: Light – Reflection and Refraction > Activity 9.10 > p. 149