Updated: Dec 9, 2025 | Source: 2024-2028 Question Pool | Topic: E9D
E9D05E9D

Approximately how long is a Yagi’s driven element?

Deep Dive: E9D05

The correct answer is D: 1/2 wavelength. A Yagi's driven element is approximately 1/2 wavelength long. The driven element is typically slightly shorter than a free-space half-wave to account for end effects and to optimize performance in the Yagi configuration. The driven element in a Yagi is the element that's actually fed with RF power. It's typically about 0.47 to 0.49 wavelengths long (slightly shorter than a true half-wave) to account for the effects of the nearby parasitic elements (reflector and directors). The exact length depends on the Yagi design, spacing, and desired performance, but it's approximately half a wavelength. This is a fundamental characteristic of Yagi antennas - the driven element is a half-wave dipole, modified slightly for the Yagi environment.

Why Other Answers Are Wrong

Option A: Incorrect. 234/frequency in MHz gives the length in feet for a half-wave dipole, but the question asks for the relationship, not a formula. The driven element is 1/2 wavelength. Option B: Incorrect. 1005/frequency in MHz would be way too long - that's over 4 wavelengths, not half a wavelength. Option C: Incorrect. 1/4 wavelength is the length of a quarter-wave vertical or the elements in some other antennas, but Yagi driven elements are half-wavelength.

Exam Tip

Yagi driven element = 1/2 wavelength. Remember: A Yagi's driven element is approximately 1/2 wavelength long (typically slightly shorter, about 0.47-0.49λ, to account for nearby parasitic elements).

Memory Aid

**Y**agi **D**riven **E**lement = **1**/**2** wavelength (think 'YDE = 1/2λ')

Real-World Example

You're building a Yagi for 20 meters (14 MHz). The driven element is approximately 1/2 wavelength = about 10 meters (33 feet). It might actually be slightly shorter (maybe 9.5 meters) to optimize performance with the reflector and directors. The driven element is the element you feed with RF power.

Source & Coverage

Question Pool: 2024-2028 Question Pool

Subelement: E9D

Reference: FCC Part 97.3

Key Concepts

Yagi antenna Driven element Half-wavelength Antenna length

Verified Content

Question from the official FCC Extra Class pool. Explanation reviewed by licensed amateur radio operators and mapped to the E9D topic.