FCC Exam Question: 3-93O3

What happens to the beamwidth of an antenna as the gain is increased? The beamwidth:

A. Increases geometrically as the gain is increased.
B. Increases arithmetically as the gain is increased.
C. Is essentially unaffected by the gain of the antenna.
D. Decreases as the gain is increased.
Correct Answer: D

Explanation: Antenna gain and beamwidth are inversely related. Gain measures how effectively an antenna concentrates radiated power in a particular direction compared to an isotropic (omnidirectional) antenna. To achieve higher gain, an antenna must focus its radio energy into a narrower angular spread. Imagine a flashlight: a wide beam spreads light over a large area (low gain), while a tightly focused beam directs intense light in one specific direction (high gain). Similarly, for radio waves, increased gain means the antenna is directing more of its available power into a smaller segment of space. This concentration of energy into a smaller angular area is precisely what a decreased beamwidth signifies. Therefore, as the gain of an antenna is increased, its beamwidth must decrease to focus the energy more effectively. Options A, B, and C are incorrect because they suggest either an increase in beamwidth or no effect, which contradicts the fundamental principle of how antennas achieve higher gain.

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Includes Elements 1, 3, 6, 7R, 8, and 9.