Question
Why is skip propagation via the F2 region longer than that via the other ionospheric regions?
Answer Options
- A) Because it is the densest
- B) Because of the Doppler effect
- C) Because it is the highest
- D) Because of temperature inversions
Correct Answer: C
Explanation
The F2 region is the outermost and highest of the ionospheric layers, reaching altitudes up to 400 km. The distance a radio wave travels before returning to Earth is determined by the height of the refracting layer and the angle at which the wave enters the layer.
Because the F2 region is the highest, a radio wave refracted there travels a much longer distance along the Earth’s surface before returning, resulting in a longer single-hop distance (approx. 2,500 miles) compared to the lower E region (approx. 1,200 miles).
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