Which phenomenon occurs when a signal's energy travels back to the source due to impedance mismatch?

The phenomenon that occurs when a signal's energy travels back to the source due to impedance mismatch is known as a reflected signal. When a signal traveling through a medium encounters an impedance mismatch—such as when it reaches a different type of cable or connection—it cannot fully transmit through to the next section. Instead, some of the signal's energy bounces back toward the source, resulting in a reflected signal.

In cable installations, maintaining proper impedance throughout the system is crucial to minimize these reflections, as they can cause degradation of the signal quality. This reflection can lead to issues like standing waves, which further complicate signal integrity and can result in loss of performance or reliability in data transmission. Understanding this concept is critical for installers who work with networking and telecommunication systems to ensure optimal performance.