Propagation.
Subel. L11
87 questions
L11
Hide Distractors
- L01 33 questions
- L02 60 questions
- L03a 43 questions
- L03b 6 questions
- L04 47 questions
- L05 68 questions
- L06a 11 questions
- L06b 60 questions
- L07 52 questions
- L08 79 questions
- L09a 17 questions
- L09b 44 questions
- L10 54 questions
- L11 87 questions
- L12 32 questions
- L13 55 questions
- L14a 27 questions
- L14b 11 questions
- L15 87 questions
- L16 99 questions
Subelement L11
Section L11
What type of propagation usually occurs from one hand-held VHF transceiver to another nearby?
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Tunnel propagation
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Skywave propagation
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Auroral propagation
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Correct AnswerLine-of-sight propagation
key words: VHF, NEARBY. The two antennas "see" one another. 'Line-of-sight' is also known as 'direct waves' in contrast with 'sky wave'.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
How does the range of sky-wave propagation compare to ground-wave propagation?
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It depends on the weather
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Correct AnswerIt is much longer
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It is much shorter
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It is about the same
Ground Wave propagation present on long wavelengths (e.g., 160 m and 80 m) is of the order of 200 km. One hop via the E layer of the ionosphere can reach to 2000 km. One hop via the F2 layer can reach to 4000 km. Multiple hops cover greater distances.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
When a signal is returned to Earth by the ionosphere, what is this called?
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Ground-wave propagation
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Earth-Moon-Earth propagation
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Correct AnswerSky-wave propagation
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Tropospheric propagation
How are VHF signals propagated within the range of the visible horizon?
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By plane wave
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By geometric wave
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Correct AnswerBy direct wave
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By sky wave
key words: HORIZON. The two antennas "see" one another. 'Line-of-sight' is also known as 'direct waves' in contrast with 'sky wave'.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
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Skywave is another name for:
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ground wave
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inverted wave
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Correct Answerionospheric wave
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tropospheric wave
That portion of the radiation which is directly affected by the surface of the Earth is called:
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inverted wave
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Correct Answerground wave
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tropospheric wave
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ionospheric wave
key words: SURFACE OF THE EARTH. "A special form of diffraction. Bending results when the lower part of the wave front loses energy due to currents induced in the ground (ARRL Handbook)". Ground Wave propagation present on long wavelengths (e.g., 160 m and 80 m) is of the order of 200 km.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
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At lower HF frequencies, radiocommunication out to 200 km, during daytime, is made possible by:
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troposphere
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skip wave
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ionosphere
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Correct Answerground wave
"A ground wave is the result of a special form of diffraction that primarily affects longer-wavelength vertically polarized radio waves. It is most apparent in the 80 and 160 meter amateur bands, where practical ground-wave distances may extend beyond 200 km (120 mi). It is also the primary mechanism used by AM broadcast stations in the medium-wave bands. The term ground wave is often mistakenly applied to any short-distance communication, but the actual mechanism is unique to the longer-wave bands. (...) Ground wave is most useful during the day at 1.8 and 3.5 MHz, when D layer absorption makes sky wave propagation more difficult." (ARRL Handbook 2012).
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
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The distance travelled by ground waves:
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Correct Answeris less at higher frequencies
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depends on the maximum usable frequency
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is more at higher frequencies
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is the same for all frequencies
"The actual mechanism is unique to longer wavelengths (ARRL Handbook)". Ground Wave (about 200 km) is most apparent on 160 m and 80 m. "A special form of diffraction. Bending results when the lower part of the wave front loses energy due to currents induced in the ground (ARRL Handbook)".
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
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The radio wave which follows a path from the transmitter to the ionosphere and back to Earth is known correctly as the:
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skip wave
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Correct Answerionospheric wave
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F layer
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surface wave
Reception of high frequency (HF) radio waves beyond 4000 km is generally made possible by:
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surface wave
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Correct Answerionospheric wave
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ground wave
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skip wave
One hop via the E layer of the ionosphere can reach to 2000 km. One hop via the F2 layer can reach to 4000 km. Multiple hops cover greater distances.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
What causes the ionosphere to form?
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Temperature changes ionizing the outer atmosphere
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Correct AnswerSolar radiation ionizing the outer atmosphere
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Lightning ionizing the outer atmosphere
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Release of fluorocarbons into the atmosphere
What type of solar radiation is most responsible for ionization in the outer atmosphere?
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Thermal
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Correct AnswerUltraviolet
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Microwave
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Ionized particles
Which ionospheric region is closest to the Earth?
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The F region
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The A region
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Correct AnswerThe D region
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The E region
Which region of the ionosphere is the least useful for long distance radio-wave propagation?
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The F2 region
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The F1 region
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The E region
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Correct AnswerThe D region
The D layer, lowest of the layers, is fairly dense. Once ionized during daylight hours, it ABSORBS lower frequencies ( i.e., 160 m and 80 m ).
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
What two sub-regions of ionosphere exist only in the daytime?
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Correct AnswerF1 and F2
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Troposphere and stratosphere
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Electrostatic and electromagnetic
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D and E
key word: SUB-REGIONS. The F1 and F2 layers present during the day combine at night to form the F layer. D and E are two distinct layers of their own.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
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key word: MOST. At midday, with the Sun shining directly at the ionosphere, ionization is most intense. As the Sun sets and throughout the night, ions recombine (how quickly depending on the density of a given layer) so that ionization is minimum right before dawn (sunrise).
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
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When is the ionosphere least ionized?
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Correct AnswerShortly before dawn
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Just after noon
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Just after dusk
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Shortly before midnight
key word: LEAST. At midday, with the Sun shining directly at the ionosphere, ionization is most intense. As the Sun sets and throughout the night, ions recombine (how quickly depending on the density of a given layer) so that ionization is minimum right before dawn (sunrise).
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
Why is the F2 region mainly responsible for the longest distance radio-wave propagation?
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Because it exists only at night
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Because it is the lowest ionospheric region
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Because it does not absorb radio waves as much as other ionospheric regions
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Correct AnswerBecause it is the highest ionospheric region
What is the main reason the 160, 80 and 40 metre amateur bands tend to be useful only for short-distance communications during daylight hours?
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Because of a lack of activity
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Correct AnswerBecause of D-region absorption
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Because of auroral propagation
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Because of magnetic flux
The D layer, lowest of the layers, is fairly dense. Once ionized during daylight hours, it ABSORBS lower frequencies ( i.e., 160 m and 80 m ).
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
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During the day, one of the ionospheric layers splits into two parts called:
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D1 and D2
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E1 and E2
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A and B
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Correct AnswerF1 and F2
The position of the E layer in the ionosphere is:
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below the D layer
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sporadic
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above the F layer
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Correct Answerbelow the F layer
What is a skip zone?
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Correct AnswerAn area which is too far away for ground-wave propagation, but too close for sky-wave propagation
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An area which is too far away for ground-wave or sky-wave propagation
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An area covered by sky-wave propagation
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An area covered by ground-wave propagation
The Skip Zone is a zone of silence beyond the reach of the Ground Wave but closer than the nearest point where the Sky Wave returns to Earth.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
What is the maximum distance along the Earth's surface that is normally covered in one hop using the F2 region?
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300 km (190 miles)
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Correct Answer4000 km (2500 miles)
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None; the F2 region does not support radio-wave propagation
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2000 km (1250 miles)
One hop via the E layer of the ionosphere can reach to 2000 km. One hop via the F2 layer can reach to 4000 km. Multiple hops cover greater distances.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
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What is the maximum distance along the Earth's surface that is normally covered in one hop using the E region?
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Correct Answer2000 km (1250 miles)
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300 km (190 miles)
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4000 km (2500 miles)
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None; the E region does not support radio-wave propagation
One hop via the E layer of the ionosphere can reach to 2000 km. One hop via the F2 layer can reach to 4000 km. Multiple hops cover greater distances.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
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Skip zone is:
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a zone between the antenna and the return of the first refracted wave
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Correct Answera zone between the end of the ground wave and the point where the first refracted wave returns to Earth
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a zone of silence caused by lost sky waves
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a zone between any two refracted waves
The Skip Zone is a zone of silence beyond the reach of the Ground Wave but closer than the nearest point where the Sky Wave returns to Earth.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
The distance to Europe from your location is approximately 5000 km. What sort of propagation is the most likely to be involved?
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Sporadic "E"
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Back scatter
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Tropospheric scatter
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Correct AnswerMultihop
One hop via the E layer of the ionosphere can reach to 2000 km. One hop via the F2 layer can reach to 4000 km. Multiple hops cover greater distances.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
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For radio signals, the skip distance is determined by the:
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Correct Answerheight of the ionosphere and the angle of radiation
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power fed to the power amplifier
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angle of radiation
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type of transmitting antenna used
How far one hop through the ionosphere reaches depends on the take-off angle of the wave with respect to ground ( the lower, the further ) AND the height of the layer where refraction takes place ( the higher, the further ). One hop via the E layer of the ionosphere can reach to 2000 km. One hop via the F2 layer can reach to 4000 km. Multiple hops cover greater distances.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
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The distance from the transmitter to the nearest point where the sky wave returns to the Earth is called the:
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angle of radiation
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maximum usable frequency
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Correct Answerskip distance
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skip zone
Do not confuse Skip Distance and Skip Zone. Skip Distance is the "nearest point where the sky wave returns". It marks the end of the Skip Zone which extended from beyond the reach of the Ground Wave to the "nearest point where the sky wave returns".
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
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Skip distance is the:
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the maximum distance a signal will travel by both a ground wave and reflected wave
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Correct Answerthe minimum distance reached by a signal after one reflection by the ionosphere
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the maximum distance reached by a signal after one reflection by the ionosphere
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the minimum distance reached by a ground-wave signal
Skip distance is a term associated with signals from the ionosphere. Skip effects are due to:
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selective fading of local signals
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high gain antennas being used
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local cloud cover
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Correct Answerreflection and refraction from the ionosphere
The skip distance of a sky wave will be greatest when the:
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ionosphere is most densely ionized
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signal given out is strongest
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Correct Answerangle between the ground and the radiation is smallest
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polarization is vertical
How far one hop through the ionosphere reaches depends on the take-off angle of the wave with respect to ground ( the lower, the further ) AND the height of the layer where refraction takes place ( the higher, the further ). One hop via the E layer of the ionosphere can reach to 2000 km. One hop via the F2 layer can reach to 4000 km. Multiple hops cover greater distances.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
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If the height of the reflecting layer of the ionosphere increases, the skip distance of a high frequency (HF) transmission:
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stays the same
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varies regularly
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decreases
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Correct Answerbecomes greater
How far one hop through the ionosphere reaches depends on the take-off angle of the wave with respect to ground ( the lower, the further ) AND the height of the layer where refraction takes place ( the higher, the further ). One hop via the E layer of the ionosphere can reach to 2000 km. One hop via the F2 layer can reach to 4000 km. Multiple hops cover greater distances.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
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What effect does the D region of the ionosphere have on lower frequency HF signals in the daytime?
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It has little or no effect on 80-metre radio waves
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Correct AnswerIt absorbs the signals
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It bends the radio waves out into space
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It refracts the radio waves back to Earth
The D layer, lowest of the layers, is fairly dense. Once ionized during daylight hours, it ABSORBS lower frequencies ( i.e., 160 m and 80 m ).
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
What causes distant AM broadcast and 160 metre ham band stations not to be heard during daytime hours?
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The presence of ionized clouds in the E region
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The splitting of the F region
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The weather below the ionosphere
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Correct AnswerThe ionization of the D region
The D layer, lowest of the layers, is fairly dense. Once ionized during daylight hours, it ABSORBS lower frequencies ( i.e., 160 m and 80 m ).
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
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Two or more parts of the radio wave follow different paths during propagation and this may result in phase differences at the receiver. This "change" at the receiver is called:
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absorption
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skip
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Correct Answerfading
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baffling
Parts of a wave arriving with difference in phases (Selective Fading) cause a fluctuation in the perceived signal. Signals with large bandwidths are more susceptible to Selective Fading. SSB is less affected. [ "Selective fading: fading which affects unequally the different spectral components of a modulated radio wave" (IEC). ]
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
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A change or variation in signal strength at the antenna, caused by differences in path lengths, is called:
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Correct Answerfading
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absorption
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fluctuation
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path loss
Parts of a wave arriving with difference in phases (Selective Fading) cause a fluctuation in the perceived signal. Signals with large bandwidths are more susceptible to Selective Fading. SSB is less affected. [ "Selective fading: fading which affects unequally the different spectral components of a modulated radio wave" (IEC). ]
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
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When a transmitted radio signal reaches a station by a one-hop and two-hop skip path, small changes in the ionosphere can cause:
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consistent fading of received signal
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consistently stronger signals
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a change in the ground-wave signal
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Correct Answervariations in signal strength
This effect called 'multipath' (where copies of the same signal arrive with phase differences after travelling different path lengths) causes Rapid Fading.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
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The usual effect of ionospheric storms is to:
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produce extreme weather changes
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prevent communications by ground wave
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increase the maximum usable frequency
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Correct Answercause a fade-out of sky-wave signals
Ionospheric Storm: exceptional solar activity where greater quantities of particles arrive from the Sun make for more ionization (too much ionization), absorption is increased and may last for days.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
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On the VHF and UHF bands, polarization of the receiving antenna is very important in relation to the transmitting antenna, yet on HF bands it is relatively unimportant. Why is that so?
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Greater selectivity is possible with HF receivers making changes in polarization redundant
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Correct AnswerThe ionosphere can change the polarization of the signal from moment to moment
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The ground wave and the sky wave continually shift the polarization
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Anomalies in the Earth's magnetic field produce a profound effect on HF polarization but not on VHF & UHF frequencies
As a radio wave travels through the changing layers of the ionosphere and is refracted back to Earth, wave polarization will have changed.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
What causes selective fading?
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Time differences between the receiving and transmitting stations
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Large changes in the height of the ionosphere at the receiving station ordinarily occurring shortly before sunrise and sunset
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Correct AnswerPhase differences between radio wave components of the same transmission, as experienced at the receiving station
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Small changes in beam heading at the receiving station
Parts of a wave arriving with difference in phases (Selective Fading) cause a fluctuation in the perceived signal. Signals with large bandwidths are more susceptible to Selective Fading. SSB is less affected. [ "Selective fading: fading which affects unequally the different spectral components of a modulated radio wave" (IEC). ]
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
How does the bandwidth of a transmitted signal affect selective fading?
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It is the same for both wide and narrow bandwidths
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Only the receiver bandwidth determines the selective fading effect
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It is more pronounced at narrow bandwidths
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Correct AnswerIt is more pronounced at wide bandwidths
Parts of a wave arriving with difference in phases (Selective Fading) cause a fluctuation in the perceived signal. Signals with large bandwidths are more susceptible to Selective Fading. SSB is less affected. [ "Selective fading: fading which affects unequally the different spectral components of a modulated radio wave" (IEC). ]
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
Polarization change often takes place on radio waves that are propagated over long distances. Which of these does not cause polarization change?
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Passage through magnetic fields (Faraday rotation)
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Refractions
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Correct AnswerParabolic interaction
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Reflections
key word: NOT. Refraction, reflection and magnetic fields all affect wave polarization as waves travel to and from the ionosphere.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
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Reflection of a SSB transmission from the ionosphere causes:
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a high-pitch squeal at the receiver
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Correct Answerlittle or no phase-shift distortion
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phase-shift distortion
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signal cancellation at the receiver
Parts of a wave arriving with difference in phases (Selective Fading) cause a fluctuation in the perceived signal. Signals with large bandwidths are more susceptible to Selective Fading. SSB is less affected. [ "Selective fading: fading which affects unequally the different spectral components of a modulated radio wave" (IEC). ]
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
How do sunspots change the ionization of the atmosphere?
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The more sunspots there are, the less the ionization
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Unless there are sunspots, the ionization is zero
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They have no effect
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Correct AnswerThe more sunspots there are, the greater the ionization
The number of sunspots visible on the surface of the Sun are related to overall solar activity. The higher the sunspot numbers, the higher the emission of Ultraviolet (UV) and particles. Ionization is directly influenced by the level of radiation.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
What is solar flux?
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A measure of the tilt of the Earth's ionosphere on the side toward the sun
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The number of sunspots on the side of the sun facing the Earth
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The density of the sun's magnetic field
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Correct AnswerThe radio energy emitted by the sun
The Sun's activity can be observed by visually counting sunspots but also by measuring noise at a microwave frequency. Sunspot numbers and solar flux are well co-related. The measurement of the solar flux is reported as a Solar Flux Index.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
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What is the solar-flux index?
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A measure of solar activity that is taken annually
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Correct AnswerA measure of solar activity that is taken at a specific frequency
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Another name for the American sunspot number
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A measure of solar activity that compares daily readings with results from the last six months
The Sun's activity can be observed by visually counting sunspots but also by measuring noise at a microwave frequency. Sunspot numbers and solar flux are well co-related. The measurement of the solar flux is reported as a Solar Flux Index.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
What influences all radiocommunication beyond ground-wave or line-of-sight ranges?
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The F2 region of the ionosphere
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The F1 region of the ionosphere
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Lunar tidal effects
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Correct AnswerSolar radiation
Because the Sun affects the ionosphere and the troposphere (e.g., temperature inversions), it can be said that it has an influence on all radiocommunications.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
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Which two types of radiation from the sun influence propagation?
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Correct AnswerElectromagnetic and particle emissions
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Subaudible and audio-frequency emissions
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Polar region and equatorial emissions
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Infrared and gamma-ray emissions
Ultraviolet (UV) rays, a form of electromagnetic radiation, and particles [namely alpha and beta] are responsible for ionization in the ionosphere.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
When sunspot numbers are high, how is propagation affected?
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High frequency radio signals become weak and distorted
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Correct AnswerFrequencies up to 40 MHz or even higher become usable for long-distance communication
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High frequency radio signals are absorbed
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Frequencies up to 100 MHz or higher are normally usable for long-distance communication
Maximum Usable Frequencies (MUF) in the range of 30 to 50 MHz become possible during solar cycle peaks. Stronger ionization allow upper layers of the ionosphere to refract higher frequencies rather than let them escape into space (as is the case during solar cycle lows).
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
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All communication frequencies throughout the spectrum are affected in varying degrees by the:
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ionosphere
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aurora borealis
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atmospheric conditions
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Correct Answersun
Because the Sun affects the ionosphere and the troposphere (e.g., temperature inversions), it can be said that it has an influence on all radiocommunications.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
The ability of the ionosphere to reflect high frequency radio signals depends on:
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upper atmosphere weather conditions
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Correct Answerthe amount of solar radiation
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the power of the transmitted signal
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the receiver sensitivity
Ionization makes refraction possible. Ultraviolet (UV) rays, a form of electromagnetic radiation, and particles [namely alpha and beta] are responsible for ionization in the ionosphere.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
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HF radio propagation cycles have a period of approximately 11:
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centuries
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Correct Answeryears
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months
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days
What happens to signals higher in frequency than the critical frequency?
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They are absorbed by the ionosphere
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Their frequency is changed by the ionosphere to be below the maximum usable frequency
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They are reflected back to their source
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Correct AnswerThey pass through the ionosphere
The 'Critical Frequency' is a measurement of the highest frequency which will be refracted back to Earth when sent straight up at a given time. Above the Critical Frequency, the wave escapes into space. How high the Critical Frequency is, relates to the ionization level.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
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What causes the maximum usable frequency to vary?
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The type of weather just below the ionosphere
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Correct AnswerThe amount of radiation received from the sun, mainly ultraviolet
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The temperature of the ionosphere
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The speed of the winds in the upper atmosphere
The Maximum Usable Frequency (MUF) is the highest frequency usable for sky wave propagation between two points on the globe. MUF varies with ionization levels (solar cycle, time of the day). Maximum Usable Frequencies (MUF) in the range of 30 to 50 MHz become possible during solar cycle peaks.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
What does maximum usable frequency mean?
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Correct AnswerThe highest frequency signal that will reach its intended destination
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The lowest frequency signal that will reach its intended destination
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The highest frequency signal that is most absorbed by the ionosphere
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The lowest frequency signal that is most absorbed by the ionosphere
The Maximum Usable Frequency (MUF) is the highest frequency usable for sky wave propagation between two points on the globe. MUF varies with ionization levels (solar cycle, time of the day). Maximum Usable Frequencies (MUF) in the range of 30 to 50 MHz become possible during solar cycle peaks.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
What can be done at an amateur station to continue HF communications during a sudden ionospheric disturbance?
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Try a different frequency shift
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Correct AnswerTry a higher frequency band
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Try the other sideband
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Try a different antenna polarization
A Sudden Ionospheric Disturbance is a sudden rise in radiation, due to solar flares, which increases D-layer ABSORPTION for an hour or so. The only option is to "try a higher frequency band" in an attempt to cut through the absorption.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
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What is one way to determine if the maximum usable frequency (MUF) is high enough to support 28 MHz propagation between your station and western Europe?
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Listen for WWVH time signals on 20 MHz
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Correct AnswerListen for signals from 10-metre beacon stations
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Listen for signals from 20-metre beacon stations
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Listen for signals from 39-metre broadcast stations
The 10 m band spans 28.0 MHz to 29.7 MHz. 'Beacons' are one-way automated stations maintained by amateurs which operate on known frequencies to permit evaluating propagation conditions.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
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What usually happens to radio waves with frequencies below the maximum usable frequency (MUF) when they are sent into the ionosphere?
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They pass through the ionosphere
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Correct AnswerThey are bent back to the Earth
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They are changed to a frequency above the MUF
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They are completely absorbed by the ionosphere
As Maximum Usable Frequency (MUF) is the highest frequency usable for sky wave propagation between two points on the globe, using lower frequencies are also refracted back to Earth. In fact, the Optimum Working Frequency is somewhat lower than the MUF [85%]. Note that frequencies below the MUF are more subject to absorption and noise so a lower limit does exist. Refraction of a given signal by the ionosphere is dependent on the frequency, the level of ionization and the angle of entry into a layer.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
At what point in the solar cycle does the 20-metre band usually support worldwide propagation during daylight hours?
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Only at the maximum point of the solar cycle
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At the summer solstice
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Correct AnswerAt any point in the solar cycle
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Only at the minimum point of the solar cycle
If we transmit a signal, the frequency of which is so high we no longer receive a reflection from the ionosphere, the signal frequency is above the:
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skip distance
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speed of light
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sunspot frequency
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Correct Answermaximum usable frequency
The Maximum Usable Frequency (MUF) is the highest frequency usable for sky wave propagation between two points on the globe. MUF varies with ionization levels (solar cycle, time of the day). Maximum Usable Frequencies (MUF) in the range of 30 to 50 MHz become possible during solar cycle peaks.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
Communication on the 80 metre band is generally most difficult during:
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daytime in winter
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Correct Answerdaytime in summer
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evening in winter
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evening in summer
During the summer, two problems can affect 160 m and 80 m: static from lightning (thunderstorms) and D-layer absorption. The D layer, lowest of the layers, is fairly dense. Once ionized during daylight hours, it ABSORBS lower frequencies ( i.e., 160 m and 80 m ).
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
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The optimum working frequency provides the best long range HF communication. Compared with the maximum usable frequency (MUF), it is usually:
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double the MUF
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half the MUF
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slightly higher
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Correct Answerslightly lower
As Maximum Usable Frequency (MUF) is the highest frequency usable for sky wave propagation between two points on the globe, using lower frequencies are also refracted back to Earth. In fact the Optimum Working Frequency is somewhat lower than the MUF [85%]. Note that frequencies below the MUF are more subject to absorption and noise so a lower limit does exist. Refraction of a given signal by the ionosphere is dependent on the frequency, the level of ionization and the angle of entry into a layer.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
During summer daytime, which bands are the most difficult for communications beyond ground wave?
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Correct Answer160 and 80 metres
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40 metres
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30 metres
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20 metres
During the summer, two problems can affect 160 m and 80 m: static from lightning (thunderstorms) and D-layer absorption. The D layer, lowest of the layers, is fairly dense. Once ionized during daylight hours, it ABSORBS lower frequencies ( i.e., 160 m and 80 m ).
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
Which ionospheric region most affects sky-wave propagation on the 6 metre band?
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The D region
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Correct AnswerThe E region
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The F2 region
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The F1 region
At 50 to 54 MHz, the 6 m band normally escapes into space. However, 'Sporadic E' ( intense but temporary ionization of patches in the upper regions of the E layer ) can provide refraction paths for 6 metres.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
What effect does tropospheric bending have on 2-metre radio waves?
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Correct AnswerIt lets you contact stations farther away
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It causes them to travel shorter distances
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It garbles the signal
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It reverses the sideband of the signal
key word: BENDING. Tropospheric bending : refraction occurs when a wave travels through masses of differing densities (humidity content) in the troposphere. The wave travels further rather than escape right away into space.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
What causes tropospheric ducting of radio waves?
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Correct AnswerA temperature inversion
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Lightning between the transmitting and receiving stations
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An aurora to the north
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A very low pressure area
key word: DUCTING. Wave gets caught between sandwiched masses of different humidity contents (like in a waveguide). A 'temperature inversion', where hot air masses find themselves riding over cooler air, lead to conditions supporting 'Ducting'. Except for 'Tropo Ducting', common troposcatter (scattering through the troposphere) opens VHF paths out to 500 km for well-equipped stations (800 at the most). 'Tropospheric Ducting' permit distances beyond 800 km.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
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That portion of the radiation kept close to the Earth's surface due to bending in the atmosphere is called the:
-
Correct Answertropospheric wave
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inverted wave
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ground wave
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ionospheric wave
key word: BENDING. Tropospheric bending : refraction occurs when a wave travels through masses of differing densities (humidity content) in the troposphere. The wave travels further rather than escape right away into space.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
What is a sporadic-E condition?
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A brief decrease in VHF signals caused by sunspot variations
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Correct AnswerPatches of dense ionization at E-region height
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Partial tropospheric ducting at E-region height
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Variations in E-region height caused by sunspot variations
At 50 to 54 MHz, the 6 m band normally escapes into space. However, 'Sporadic E' ( intense but temporary ionization of patches in the upper regions of the E layer ) can provide refraction paths for 6 metres.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
On which amateur frequency band is the extended-distance propagation effect of sporadic-E most often observed?
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20 metres
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2 metres
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Correct Answer6 metres
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160 metres
At 50 to 54 MHz, the 6 m band normally escapes into space. However, 'Sporadic E' ( intense but temporary ionization of patches in the upper regions of the E layer ) can provide refraction paths for 6 metres.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
In the northern hemisphere, in which direction should a directional antenna be pointed to take maximum advantage of auroral propagation?
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South
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Correct AnswerNorth
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East
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West
key word: AURORA. The arrival of high-energy particles from the Sun (e.g., after a solar flare) disturbs the Earth's magnetic field (a geomagnetic storm). The resulting unusual ionization of gases in the E layer above the poles produce the visual display known as 'aurora' ("Northern Lights"). Pointing antennas at the aurora front permit oblique paths to distant stations.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
Where in the ionosphere does auroral activity occur?
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Correct AnswerAt E-region height
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At F-region height
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In the equatorial band
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At D-region height
key word: AURORA. The arrival of high-energy particles from the Sun (e.g., after a solar flare) disturbs the Earth's magnetic field (a geomagnetic storm). The resulting unusual ionization of gases in the E layer above the poles produce the visual display known as 'aurora' ("Northern Lights"). Pointing antennas at the aurora front permit oblique paths to distant stations.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
The unstable front of the aurora and ensuing scattering of the radio wave make for distorted signals, only the smaller bandwidth signals are usable.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
Excluding enhanced propagation modes, what is the approximate range of normal VHF tropospheric propagation?
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1600 km (1000 miles)
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Correct Answer800 km (500 miles)
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2400 km (1500 miles)
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3200 km (2000 miles)
Except for 'Tropo Ducting', common troposcatter (scattering through the troposphere) opens VHF paths out to 500 km for well-equipped stations (800 at the most). 'Tropospheric Ducting' (where a wave gets caught between sandwiched air masses during a 'temperature inversion') permit distances beyond 800 km.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
What effect is responsible for propagating a VHF signal over 800 km (500 miles)?
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Faraday rotation
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D-region absorption
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Moon bounce (EME) Earth - Moon - Earth
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Correct AnswerTropospheric ducting
Except for 'Tropo Ducting', common troposcatter (scattering through the troposphere) opens VHF paths out to 500 km for well-equipped stations (800 at the most). 'Tropospheric Ducting' (where a wave gets caught between sandwiched air masses during a 'temperature inversion') permit distances beyond 800 km.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
What kind of unusual HF propagation allows weak signals from the skip zone to be heard occasionally?
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Ducting
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Ground-wave
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Correct AnswerScatter-mode
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Sky-wave with low radiation angle
Key words: UNUSUAL, WEAK. "Beyond Ground Wave and too close for normal Sky Wave" is the 'Skip Zone', a zone of silence. Out of the choices presented, the only explanation for propagation into the Skip Zone is HF SCATTER. The signals will be weak and distorted.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
If you receive a weak, distorted signal from a distance, and close to the maximum usable frequency, what type of propagation is probably occurring?
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Line-of-sight
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Ducting
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Correct AnswerScatter
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Ground-wave
key words: WEAK, DISTORTED. Signals propagated via 'HF Scatter' have a characteristic weak and distorted (hollow, echo-like) sound. The distortion is caused by multi-path effects. Unlike simple refraction, where the entire signal changes direction, scattering splits the signal in many directions (thus explaining the weakness).
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
What is a characteristic of HF scatter signals?
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Reversed sidebands
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High intelligibility
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Correct AnswerRapid flutter or hollow sounding distortion
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Reversed modulation
key words: FLUTTER, HOLLOW. Signals propagated via 'HF Scatter' have a characteristic weak and distorted (hollow, echo-like) sound. The distortion is caused by multi-path effects. Unlike simple refraction, where the entire signal changes direction, scattering splits the signal in many directions (thus explaining the weakness).
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
What makes HF scatter signals often sound distorted?
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The state of the E-region at the point of refraction
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Correct AnswerEnergy scattered into the skip zone through several radio-wave paths
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Auroral activity and changes in the Earth's magnetic field
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Propagation through ground waves that absorb much of the signal
key words: SCATTER, DISTORTED. Signals propagated via 'HF Scatter' have a characteristic weak and distorted (hollow, echo-like) sound. The distortion is caused by multi-path effects. Unlike simple refraction, where the entire signal changes direction, scattering splits the signal in many directions (thus explaining the weakness).
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
Why are HF scatter signals usually weak?
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The F region of the ionosphere absorbs most of the signal energy
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Auroral activity absorbs most of the signal energy
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Correct AnswerOnly a small part of the signal energy is scattered into the skip zone
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Propagation through ground waves absorbs most of the signal energy
key words: SCATTER, WEAK. Signals propagated via 'HF Scatter' have a characteristic weak and distorted (hollow, echo-like) sound. The distortion is caused by multi-path effects. Unlike simple refraction, where the entire signal changes direction, scattering splits the signal in many directions (thus explaining the weakness).
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
What type of propagation may allow a weak signal to be heard at a distance too far for ground-wave propagation but too near for normal sky-wave propagation?
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Sporadic-E skip
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Ground wave
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Correct AnswerScatter
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Short-path skip
"Beyond Ground Wave and too close for normal Sky Wave" is the 'Skip Zone', a zone of silence. Out of the choices provided, the only explanation for propagation into the Skip Zone is HF SCATTER.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
On the HF bands, when is scatter propagation most likely involved?
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When the sunspot cycle is at a minimum and D-region absorption is high
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At night
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When the F1 and F2 regions are combined
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Correct AnswerWhen weak and distorted signals near or above the maximum usable frequency for normal propagation can be heard over unusual paths
Key words: WEAK, DISTORTED, UNUSUAL PATHS. "Special forms of F layer scattering can create unusual paths within the skip zone. Backscatter and sidescatter signals are usually observed just below the MUF for the direct path and allow communications not normally possible by other means. (...) Backscattered signals are generally weak and have a characteristic hollow sound." (ARRL Handbook 2012)
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
Which of the following is not a scatter mode?
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Meteor scatter
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Tropospheric scatter
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Ionospheric scatter
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Correct AnswerAbsorption scatter
Key words: IS NOT. Meteor Scatter (bouncing signals off the ionized trails left by meteors), Troposcatter (scattering by layers of varying humidity content in the lower atmosphere) and Ionospheric Scatter (through irregularities, turbulence or stratification in the ionospheric layers) are all known scatter modes.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
Meteor scatter is most effective on what band?
-
15 metres
-
160 metres
-
Correct Answer6 metres
-
40 metres
30 MHz to 100 MHz is the range where 'Meteor Scatter' is most effective. This makes the 6 m amateur band (50 MHz to 54 MHz) the band of choice for Meteor Scatter.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
Which of the following is not a scatter mode?
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Forward scatter
-
Correct AnswerInverted scatter
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Side scatter
-
Back scatter
key word: NOT. Scattering has to do with dispersing in many DIRECTIONS. 'Side Scatter', 'Back Scatter' and ' Forward Scatter' are valid paths.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
In which frequency range is meteor scatter most effective for extended-range communication?
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10 - 30 MHz
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3 - 10 MHz
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100 - 300 MHz
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Correct Answer30 - 100 MHz
30 MHz to 100 MHz is the range where 'Meteor Scatter' is most effective. This makes the 6 m amateur band (50 MHz to 54 MHz) the band of choice for Meteor Scatter.
Original copyright; explanations transcribed with permission from Francois VE2AAY, author of the ExHAMiner exam simulator. Do not copy without his permission.
Tags: none
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