Which component is crucial for preventing light loss in optical fiber?

The cladding is crucial for preventing light loss in optical fiber because it surrounds the core and has a lower refractive index than the core. This difference in refractive indices creates a total internal reflection effect, which allows light signals to be transmitted over long distances with minimal loss. When light travels through the core, it is kept inside by continuously reflecting off the cladding, ensuring that it does not escape.

In contrast, the jacket, connector, and sheath serve different roles in the fiber optic system. The jacket protects the fiber from physical damage and environmental factors but does not have a role in light transmission itself. The connector is necessary for joining fibers and ensuring transmission continuity between different segments but does not influence light loss during transmission. The sheath provides additional protection but again does not interact with the optical properties of light traveling through the fiber. Thus, the cladding plays a vital role in maintaining signal integrity by minimizing light loss.