FCC Exam Question: 6A445

What is meant by the term polarization of a radio wave?

A. Electromagnetic waves penetrate conductors because of eddy currents
B. Electromagnetically charged waves cross the zero axis in perpendicular patterns causing polarizationto appear
C. The polarization of a radio wave is determined by the direction of the electromagnetic wave plane
D. The polarization of a radio wave is determined by the direction of the magnetic wave plane
Correct Answer: C

Explanation: Radio waves are electromagnetic waves composed of oscillating electric and magnetic fields, which are always perpendicular to each other and to the direction the wave is traveling. Polarization refers to the orientation of the *electric field* component of this electromagnetic wave. Option C is correct because the polarization of a radio wave is conventionally determined by the direction of its electric field vector. For example, if the electric field oscillates in a vertical plane, the wave is said to be vertically polarized. The phrase "direction of the electromagnetic wave plane" in option C refers to this specific orientation of the electric field. Option D is incorrect because, by definition, polarization is referenced to the electric field, not the magnetic field, even though the two are inextricably linked and perpendicular. Options A and B are incorrect as they describe unrelated phenomena (eddy currents in conductors) or contain inaccurate and poorly defined statements about how electromagnetic waves operate.

Pass Your FCC Exam!

Study offline, track your progress, and simulate real exams with the GMDSS Trainer app.


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