What are the two layers of an optical fiber?

An optical fiber consists of two primary layers: the core and cladding. The core is the central part of the fiber where light is transmitted. It is made of a material with a higher refractive index, typically glass or plastic. This property allows the light signals to be guided along the length of the fiber through a phenomenon known as total internal reflection.

Surrounding the core is the cladding, which has a lower refractive index. This difference in refractive indices is crucial as it ensures that light traveling through the core reflects back into it rather than refracting out into the surrounding environment. This design is essential for maintaining the efficiency and integrity of the optical signal as it travels through the fiber.

The other options refer to components or terminologies that do not accurately describe the fundamental layers of fiber optics. The inner tube and outer tube may suggest a physical structure similar to a coaxial cable but do not reflect the composition of an optical fiber. Similarly, sheath and buffer refer to protective layers or coatings around the fiber rather than its internal structure, while conductor and insulator pertain more to electrical components rather than optical fibers. Thus, the core and cladding are the correct terms used to describe the essential layers of an optical fiber.