Which type of fiber-optic cable is preferred for long-distance telecommunications?

Single-mode fiber-optic cable is preferred for long-distance telecommunications due to its design and the way it transmits light. This type of cable has a small core diameter, typically around 8 to 10 microns, allowing only one mode of light to propagate. This minimizes modal dispersion, which is the spreading of light pulses over distance, making single-mode fiber ideal for long-distance communication as it can maintain signal integrity over much greater distances than multimode fiber.

Because single-mode fiber supports higher bandwidths and can cover larger distances without significant signal loss or degradation, it is commonly used in applications such as telecommunication networks, where high-speed data transfer and long-range transmission are crucial. In contrast, multimode fiber, while effective over shorter distances, experiences more dispersion and is therefore less efficient for long-distance transmissions. Hybrid cables combine different types of fibers, and coaxial cables are primarily used for television distribution and internet connections, rather than for long-distance telecommunications.