Technician 2022-2026T3C09
What is generally the best time for long-distance 10 meter band propagation via the F region?
A
Answer
Radio wave propagation
Type
A
From dawn to shortly after sunset during periods of high sunspot activity
B
From shortly after sunset to dawn during periods of high sunspot activity
C
From dawn to shortly after sunset during periods of low sunspot activity
D
From shortly after sunset to dawn during periods of low sunspot activity
Answer Notes
The 10-meter band relies heavily on the ionosphere's F region to achieve long-distance skywave propagation. The F region becomes highly ionized when exposed to ultraviolet radiation from the sun, making daylight hours (from dawn to shortly after sunset) the absolute best time for daytime bands like 10 meters.
Additionally, the maximum usable frequency (MUF) increases significantly during periods of high sunspot activity because the sun is emitting more ionizing radiation. This combination of daytime sunlight and peak solar cycles makes the 10-meter band exceptionally active for global communications.
During the night or during periods of low sunspot activity, the ionization levels drop too low to reflect 10-meter signals back to Earth. Instead of bouncing, the signals pass straight through the ionosphere and are lost into space.
Previous · T3C08
What causes tropospheric ducting?
Next · T3C10
Which of the following bands may provide long-distance communications via the ionosphere’s F region during the peak of the sunspot cycle?