Optical Fibres — Primary Application Area Optical fibres are mainly used for which of the following purposes?

Introduction / Context:
Optical fibres are thin strands of glass or plastic that guide light by total internal reflection. Their low attenuation and massive bandwidth have revolutionized how data is transmitted over long distances, forming the backbone of the internet and modern telecommunications.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We compare likely application domains.
• Focus on the principal, large-scale use rather than niche or experimental uses.
• Consider properties: high bandwidth, low loss, immunity to electromagnetic interference.

Concept / Approach:
The core strengths of optical fibre—huge data capacity, low signal loss, and security—make it ideal for communication networks: submarine cables, metropolitan backbones, FTTH (fibre to the home), and data center interconnects. While fibres can appear in sensors or specialized equipment, their dominant application is clearly telecommunications and data networking.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Submarine fibre-optic systems carry the majority of intercontinental internet traffic. Mobile networks also rely on fibre backhaul from towers to cores.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Musical instruments: Not a common or principal application.
• Food industry: Possible sensing niches, but not main use.
• Weaving: Refers to textiles; unrelated to optical data transmission.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing fibre optics with general fibers used in fabrics. Optical fibres are engineered waveguides, not textile threads.

Final Answer:
Communication