In optical fibers, what ensures that light remains confined within the core during transmission?
**Spherical refracting surface** power P = (n₂-n₁)/R, lens power sum of two surfaces. Lens maker derivation combines two refractions, sign of R₂ negative for second surface convex opposite direction, yielding 1/f positive for convex lens. In optical fibers, the core has a higher refractive index than the cladding, enabling total internal reflection. When light strikes the core-cladding boundary at an angle greater than the critical angle, it reflects back into the core, ensuring confinement and minimal loss. Substituting values gives Higher refractive index of core than cladding, which matches expected image position and magnification from mirror/lens formula 1/f = 1/v - 1/u (lens) or 1/f
Ref: NCERT > Physics Book > Ray Optics > Refraction at Spherical Surfaces and Lens Maker's Formula