Which component surrounds the center part of the glass fiber to facilitate reflection?

The cladding is the component that surrounds the core of a glass fiber, playing a crucial role in the process of light reflection within the fiber. It is designed with a lower refractive index compared to the core, which ensures that light signals traveling through the core are reflected back into it rather than escaping. This phenomenon, known as total internal reflection, is essential for maintaining the integrity of the signal strength over long distances, allowing for efficient transmission of data.

In fiber optics, the cladding’s unique optical properties enable high-performance communication systems, as it minimizes signal loss and maintains the quality of the transmitted information. The buffer, coating, and jacket each serve different functions, such as protecting the fiber from environmental damage and adding mechanical strength, but it is the cladding that directly influences the light propagation by providing the necessary conditions for reflection.