Updated: Dec 9, 2025 | Source: 2023-2027 Question Pool | Topic: G4C
G4C06G4C

What is a possible effect of a resonant ground connection?

Deep Dive: G4C06

The correct answer is C: High RF voltages on the enclosures of station equipment. A possible effect of a resonant ground connection is high RF voltages on the enclosures of station equipment. A resonant ground connection has high impedance at certain frequencies, preventing effective grounding and allowing RF voltage to build up. For amateur radio operators, this is a safety concern. Understanding this helps prevent RF hazards.

Why Other Answers Are Wrong

Option A: Incorrect. Resonant ground doesn't cause overheating of ground straps - overheating comes from excessive current, not resonance. Overheating isn't the effect. Option B: Incorrect. Resonant ground doesn't cause corrosion - corrosion comes from chemical/electrolytic action, not resonance. Corrosion isn't the effect. Option D: Incorrect. Resonant ground doesn't cause ground loops - ground loops come from multiple ground paths, not resonance. Ground loops are different.

Exam Tip

Resonant ground effect = high RF voltages on equipment enclosures. Think 'R'esonant 'G'round = 'R'F 'G'ets high voltage. Resonant ground has high impedance, preventing effective grounding and allowing RF voltage buildup. Not overheating, not corrosion, not ground loops - just high RF voltages.

Memory Aid

Resonant ground effect = high RF voltages on equipment enclosures. Think 'R'esonant 'G'round = 'R'F 'G'ets high voltage. Resonant ground has high impedance, allowing RF voltage buildup. Safety concern that proper grounding prevents.

Real-World Example

Your ground connection is resonant at your operating frequency (e.g., ground wire length creates resonance). The resonant ground has high impedance, preventing RF from flowing to ground effectively. RF voltage builds up on equipment enclosures, creating a shock hazard. Proper non-resonant grounding prevents this.

Source & Coverage

Question Pool: 2023-2027 Question Pool

Subelement: G4C

Reference: 2023-2027 Question Pool · G4 - Amateur Radio Practices

Key Concepts

Resonant ground connection High RF voltages Equipment enclosures RF safety

Verified Content

Question from the official FCC General Class pool. Explanation reviewed by licensed amateur radio operators and mapped to the G4C topic.