FCC Exam Question: 6A439

By reducing the physical length of a Hertzian antenna what are the results?

A. The resonant frequency will be reduced
B. The signal on a nearby frequency will be saturated upon modulation
C. The antenna trap is reduced causing cross modulation
D. The resonant frequency will increase
Correct Answer: D

Explanation: A resonant Hertzian (or half-wave) antenna's physical length is approximately half the wavelength of the signal it's designed for. Wavelength and frequency are inversely proportional ($\lambda = c/f$, where $c$ is the speed of light). Therefore, if you reduce the physical length of the antenna, you are making it resonant at a shorter wavelength. A shorter wavelength corresponds directly to a higher frequency. To maintain resonance, a shorter antenna must operate at a higher frequency. Option A is incorrect as it states the opposite of the correct relationship. Options B and C describe issues related to amplifier linearity, mixer performance, or impedance mismatch, not the direct effect of physical length on an antenna's fundamental resonant frequency.

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