Question
What is the approximate maximum distance along the Earth’s surface normally covered in one hop using the F2 region?
Answer Options
- A) 180 miles
- B) 1,200 miles
- C) 2,500 miles
- D) 12,000 miles
Correct Answer: C
Explanation
The F2 region is the highest and most important ionospheric layer for long-distance High Frequency (HF) communication. Because of its great altitude (up to 400 km), radio waves refracted by the F2 region travel a much longer distance before returning to Earth than those from lower layers.
Assuming the signal leaves and returns at a shallow angle, the approximate maximum distance covered in a single F2 hop is about 2,500 miles. Communication over greater distances requires multiple hops, where the signal bounces off the Earth’s surface and then back up to the F2 layer again.
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