Question
Which of the following determines ground losses for a ground-mounted vertical antenna operating on HF?
Answer Options
- A) The standing wave ratio
- B) Distance from the transmitter
- C) Soil conductivity
- D) Take-off angle
Correct Answer: C
Explanation
For a ground-mounted vertical antenna, the Earth itself acts as the second half of the antenna system. When the RF current is returned to the ground system, it flows through the Earth, and the resistance of the soil dissipates power as heat (ground loss). This energy dissipation is a major factor limiting the antenna’s overall radiation efficiency.
Therefore, the conductivity of the earth directly determines ground losses. The factor that determines ground losses for a ground-mounted vertical antenna operating on HF is Soil conductivity. Ground losses are minimized by operating over highly conductive ground (like saltwater or marshy soil) or by installing a highly conductive ground radial system to bypass the poor-conducting natural soil.
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