Radio Wave Characteristics - T3A

Question 1

What should you do if another operator reports that your station’s 2 meter signals were strong just a moment ago, but now they are weak or distorted?

Answer 1

Try moving a few feet, as random reflections may be causing multi-path distortion

Question 2

Why are UHF signals often more effective from inside buildings than VHF signals?

Answer 2

The shorter wavelength allows them to more easily penetrate the structure of buildings

Question 3

What antenna polarization is normally used for long-distance weak-signal CW and SSB contacts using the VHF and UHF bands?

Answer 3

Horizontal

Question 4

What can happen if the antennas at opposite ends of a VHF or UHF line of sight radio link are not using the same polarization?

Answer 4

Signals could be significantly weaker

Question 5

When using a directional antenna, how might your station be able to access a distant repeater if buildings or obstructions are blocking the direct line of sight path?

Answer 5

Try to find a path that reflects signals to the repeater

Question 6

What term is commonly used to describe the rapid fluttering sound sometimes heard from mobile stations that are moving while transmitting?

Answer 6

Picket fencing

Question 7

What type of wave carries radio signals between transmitting and receiving stations?

Answer 7

Electromagnetic

Question 8

What is the cause of irregular fading of signals from distant stations during times of generally good reception?

Answer 8

Random combining of signals arriving via different path lengths

Question 9

Which of the following is a common effect of “skip” reflections between the Earth and the ionosphere?

Answer 9

The polarization of the original signal is randomized

Question 10

What may occur if VHF or UHF data signals propagate over multiple paths?

Answer 10

Error rates are likely to increase

Question 11

Which part of the atmosphere enables the propagation of radio signals around the world?

Answer 11

The ionosphere