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Table 3 shows some communication applications that transmit using different regions of the electromagnetic spectrum - AQA - A-Level Physics - Question 5 - 2021 - Paper 8
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Table 3 shows some communication applications that transmit using different regions of the electromagnetic spectrum. Table 3 | Application | Spectrum re... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Table 3 shows some communication applications that transmit using different regions of the electromagnetic spectrum - AQA - A-Level Physics - Question 5 - 2021 - Paper 8
Step 1
Longwave
Answer
Frequency Range
The frequency range for longwave is typically between 30 kHz to 300 kHz.
Properties of the Wave
Longwave signals can travel long distances, as they can diffract around obstacles and follow the curvature of the Earth. This property is useful for communication over large areas.
Pathway
Pathway: Ground Surface The longwave transmission generally travels along the ground, which helps in reaching areas effectively.
Step 2
Shortwave
Answer
Frequency Range
The shortwave frequency range is generally from 1.6 MHz to 30 MHz.
Properties of the Wave
Shortwave signals can reflect off the ionosphere, allowing for transmissions over substantial distances, often across continents, which makes it suitable for international communication.
Pathway
Pathway: Skywave The shortwave communication utilizes skywave propagation, wherein the waves reflect from the ionosphere back to Earth over long distances.
Step 3
Microwave
Answer
Frequency Range
Microwave communication typically uses frequencies from 1 GHz to 100 GHz.
Properties of the Wave
Microwaves are capable of carrying large amounts of data and can be highly directional, which aids in minimizing interference and maximizing the signal quality.
Pathway
Pathway: Line of Sight Microwave signals require a line-of-sight pathway as they do not heavily diffract, making them suitable for direct point-to-point communication, such as with satellite links.