What do fiber-optic cables carry information as?

Fiber-optic cables are designed to carry information using light signals. This is achieved through a technology that involves the transmission of data as pulses of light, which are sent through glass or plastic fibers. The use of light allows for higher bandwidth and faster data transmission compared to traditional methods, such as electrical signals used in copper wires. The principle of total internal reflection enables the light to travel through the fiber-optic material with minimal loss, making it an efficient medium for long-distance communication.

This method of data transmission is essential for internet, television, and telecommunications services, as it supports the increasing demand for data transfer in various applications. The ability of fiber-optic cables to transmit information over long distances with low signal degradation is one of the key advantages that distinguishes them from other types of transmission media.