What is a key characteristic of fiber optics that helps in reducing signal loss over long distances?

Low attenuation is a key characteristic of fiber optics that significantly reduces signal loss over long distances. Attenuation refers to the gradual loss of signal strength during transmission, which can be caused by scattering, absorption, and other factors. Fiber optic cables, particularly those made from glass, exhibit very low attenuation rates compared to traditional copper cables. This means that the light signals can travel much further without losing quality, making fiber optics ideal for communication over long distances, such as in telecommunication networks. The result is clearer signals and less need for signal repeaters, which are often required in copper networks to boost signal strength. Thus, the low attenuation feature of fiber optics plays a crucial role in maintaining effective communication over vast distances.