Deep Dive: E3B13
The correct answer is A: Vertical. What type of polarization is supported by ground-wave propagation is vertical. Ground-wave propagation works best with vertical polarization. For amateur radio operators, this is important for ground-wave operation. Understanding this helps when operating ground-wave.
Why Other Answers Are Wrong
Option B (Horizontal): Incorrect. Horizontal polarization doesn't work well with ground-wave - vertical polarization is needed. Horizontal is wrong. Option C (Circular): Incorrect. Circular polarization doesn't work well with ground-wave - vertical polarization is needed. Circular is wrong. Option D (Elliptical): Incorrect. Elliptical polarization doesn't work well with ground-wave - vertical polarization is needed. Elliptical is wrong.
Exam Tip
Ground-wave polarization = vertical. Think 'G'round-'W'ave = 'V'ertical. Ground-wave propagation works best with vertical polarization. Not horizontal, not circular, not elliptical - just vertical.
Memory Aid
Ground-wave polarization = vertical. Think 'G'round-'W'ave = 'V'ertical. Ground-wave propagation works best with vertical polarization. Important for ground-wave operation.
Real-World Example
Ground-wave propagation: It supports vertical polarization. Vertical antennas work best for ground-wave because the electric field is perpendicular to the ground, which is optimal for ground-wave propagation. Horizontal, circular, and elliptical polarizations don't work as well. This is the polarization - vertical for ground-wave.
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.