What term describes the process of breaking an optical fiber to create a flat, smooth end?

The correct term for the process of breaking an optical fiber to create a flat, smooth end is "cleave." Cleaving involves using a specialized tool that precisely scores the fiber and then applies pressure to create a clean break, resulting in a perfectly flat surface. This is essential because the quality of the cleave directly impacts the performance of the fiber optics, influencing aspects such as light transmission and signal quality.

A clean cleave is crucial in fiber optics, as any irregularities can lead to increased loss of light or reflection at the joint where two fibers are connected. This precision distinguishes cleaving from the more general actions of cutting, slicing, or breaking, which may not necessarily result in the desired quality of the fiber end. The cleaving process is foundational in ensuring that optical connections are effective and reliable, thereby preserving the integrity of the network.