Deep Dive: G9B06
The correct answer is C: On the surface or buried a few inches below the ground. Where the radial wires of a ground-mounted vertical antenna system should be placed is on the surface or buried a few inches below the ground. Radials should be close to ground for effective ground system. For amateur radio operators, this is essential for vertical antenna performance. Understanding this helps when installing vertical antennas.
Why Other Answers Are Wrong
Option A: Incorrect. Radials shouldn't be as high as possible - they should be on or near the ground for effective ground system. High placement is wrong. Option B: Incorrect. Radials shouldn't be parallel to antenna element - they should be horizontal, radiating outward from the base. Parallel to element is wrong. Option D: Incorrect. Radials aren't at the center of antenna - they radiate outward from the base. Center placement is wrong.
Exam Tip
Ground-mounted vertical radials = on surface or buried few inches. Think 'R'adials = 'R'adiate from base, 'R'est on ground. Radials should be close to ground for effective ground system. Not high, not parallel to element, not at center - just on surface or buried.
Memory Aid
Ground-mounted vertical radials = on surface or buried few inches. Think 'R'adials = 'R'est on ground. Radials should be close to ground for effective ground system. Essential for vertical antenna performance.
Real-World Example
A ground-mounted vertical antenna: Radial wires are placed on the surface or buried a few inches below the ground, radiating outward from the antenna base. This creates an effective ground system. Radials should be close to ground - this is essential for vertical antenna performance. This is how radials are installed.
Source & Coverage
Question Pool: 2023-2027 Question Pool
Subelement: G9B
Reference: 2023-2027 Question Pool · G9 - Antennas and Feed Lines
Key Concepts
Verified Content
Question from the official FCC General Class pool. Explanation reviewed by licensed amateur radio operators and mapped to the G9B topic.