Updated: Dec 9, 2025 | Source: 2023-2027 Question Pool | Topic: G3A
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At what point in the solar cycle does the 20-meter band usually support worldwide propagation during daylight hours?

Deep Dive: G3A07

The correct answer is D: At any point. The 20-meter band usually supports worldwide propagation during daylight hours at any point in the solar cycle. 20 meters is a reliable band that works throughout the solar cycle, though conditions vary. For amateur radio operators, 20 meters is often called the 'workhorse band' because it's reliable. Understanding this helps when planning operations.

Why Other Answers Are Wrong

Option A (Summer solstice): Incorrect. 20 meters works year-round, not just at summer solstice. Seasonal variations exist, but the band works throughout the year. Option B (Only at maximum): Incorrect. 20 meters works throughout the solar cycle, not just at solar maximum. It's reliable at all cycle points. Option C (Only at minimum): Incorrect. 20 meters works throughout the solar cycle, not just at solar minimum. It's reliable at all cycle points.

Exam Tip

20m worldwide propagation = at any point in solar cycle. Think '2'0m = '2'eliable at 'A'ny point. 20-meter band usually supports worldwide propagation during daylight hours at any point in the solar cycle. Not just solstice, maximum, or minimum - works throughout cycle.

Memory Aid

20m worldwide propagation = at any point in solar cycle. Think '2'0m = '2'eliable at 'A'ny point. 20-meter band usually supports worldwide propagation during daylight hours at any point in the solar cycle. Reliable 'workhorse band.'

Real-World Example

You operate on 20 meters during solar minimum, solar maximum, and everything in between. The band supports worldwide propagation during daylight hours throughout the solar cycle. Conditions vary (better at maximum, still good at minimum), but the band is reliable. This is why 20 meters is called the 'workhorse band.'

Source & Coverage

Question Pool: 2023-2027 Question Pool

Subelement: G3A

Reference: 2023-2027 Question Pool · G3 - Radio Wave Propagation

Key Concepts

20-meter band Worldwide propagation Solar cycle Reliable band

Verified Content

Question from the official FCC General Class pool. Explanation reviewed by licensed amateur radio operators and mapped to the G3A topic.