Deep Dive: E3B12
The correct answer is B: Successive ionospheric refractions without an intermediate reflection from the ground. What is chordal-hop propagation is successive ionospheric refractions without an intermediate reflection from the ground. Chordal-hop bounces between ionospheric layers without hitting the ground. For amateur radio operators, this is important for understanding propagation. Understanding this helps when operating HF.
Why Other Answers Are Wrong
Option A: Incorrect. Propagation away from great circle bearing isn't chordal-hop - chordal-hop is successive refractions without ground reflection. Away from great circle isn't the definition. Option C: Incorrect. Propagation across geomagnetic equator isn't chordal-hop - chordal-hop is successive refractions without ground reflection. Across equator isn't the definition. Option D: Incorrect. Signals reflected back toward transmitting station isn't chordal-hop - chordal-hop is successive refractions without ground reflection. Back reflection isn't the definition.
Exam Tip
Chordal-hop propagation = successive ionospheric refractions without intermediate reflection from ground. Think 'C'hordal-'H'op = 'C'ontinuous 'H'ops in ionosphere (no ground). Chordal-hop bounces between ionospheric layers without hitting the ground. Not away from great circle, not across equator, not back reflection - just successive refractions without ground.
Memory Aid
Chordal-hop propagation = successive ionospheric refractions without intermediate reflection from ground. Think 'C'hordal-'H'op = 'N'o 'G'round. Chordal-hop bounces between ionospheric layers without hitting the ground. Important for understanding propagation.
Real-World Example
Chordal-hop propagation: It's successive ionospheric refractions without an intermediate reflection from the ground. The signal bounces between different ionospheric layers (e.g., F1 to F2) without hitting the Earth's surface. This avoids ground losses. This is what chordal-hop is - successive refractions without ground reflection.
Source & Coverage
Question Pool: 2024-2028 Question Pool
Subelement: E3B
Reference: 2024-2028 Question Pool · E3 - Radio Wave Propagation
Key Concepts
Verified Content
Question from the official FCC Extra Class pool. Explanation reviewed by licensed amateur radio operators and mapped to the E3B topic.