FREE Ham Radio General Class Test Radio Wave Propagation Questions and Answers

Question 1

Which of the following describes the propagation mode where radio waves travel along the surface of the Earth, primarily at lower frequencies?

Accepted Answer

Ground wave propagation

Answer

Sky wave propagation

Answer

Line-of-sight propagation

Answer

Tropospheric ducting

Question 2

A ham operator is trying to communicate with a station several hundred miles away using the 20-meter band (HF). What is the most likely propagation mode they would be relying on for this distance during daylight hours?

Accepted Answer

Sky wave (ionospheric reflection)

Answer

Tropospheric scatter

Answer

Line-of-sight

Answer

Ground wave

Question 3

What effect does the F2 layer of the ionosphere typically have on HF radio wave propagation during daytime versus nighttime?

Accepted Answer

It reflects HF signals better during the day than at night.

Answer

It absorbs HF signals more during the day than at night.

Answer

It becomes less dense and higher during the day, improving propagation.

Answer

It splits into D and E layers during the day, hindering propagation.

Question 4

Which of the following propagation modes is primarily responsible for very long-distance (transcontinental or intercontinental) communication on the lower HF bands (e.g., 40, 80, 160 meters) during nighttime?

Accepted Answer

Sky wave (ionospheric reflection)

Answer

Line-of-sight

Answer

Tropospheric ducting

Answer

Ground wave

Question 5

What is the primary characteristic of 'line-of-sight' propagation for VHF and UHF signals?

Accepted Answer

It requires a clear path between the transmitting and receiving antennas without significant obstructions.

Answer

It relies on reflection from the ionosphere.

Answer

Signals follow the curvature of the Earth over long distances.

Answer

It is enhanced by atmospheric temperature inversions.

Question 6

During periods of high solar activity, what is a typical effect on HF radio wave propagation?

Accepted Answer

Higher Maximum Usable Frequencies (MUF) for long-distance propagation.

Answer

Increased absorption in the D layer, especially at higher HF frequencies.

Answer

Decreased signal strength due to reduced ionization in the F2 layer.

Answer

More frequent occurrences of sporadic E propagation.