G9B09: Horizontal polarization: An advantage of using a horizontally

Q: Which of the following is an advantage of using a horizontally polarized as compared to a vertically polarized HF antenna?

The correct answer is A: Lower ground losses. The correct answer is A: Lower ground losses. An advantage of using a horizontally polarized as compared to a vertically polarized HF antenna is lower ground losses. Horizontal antennas have less interaction with ground, reducing ground losses compared to verticals. For amateur radio operators, this is why horizontal antennas are often preferred. Understanding this helps when selecting antennas.

Updated: Dec 9, 2025 | Source: 2023-2027 Question Pool | Topic: G9B

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Which of the following is an advantage of using a horizontally polarized as compared to a vertically polarized HF antenna?

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Deep Dive: G9B09

The correct answer is A: Lower ground losses. An advantage of using a horizontally polarized as compared to a vertically polarized HF antenna is lower ground losses. Horizontal antennas have less interaction with ground, reducing ground losses compared to verticals. For amateur radio operators, this is why horizontal antennas are often preferred. Understanding this helps when selecting antennas.

Why Other Answers Are Wrong

Option B: Incorrect. Horizontal doesn't have lower feed point impedance - both can have similar impedances. Feed point impedance isn't the advantage. Option C: Incorrect. Horizontal doesn't have shorter radials - radials are for verticals, not horizontals. Radials aren't relevant. Option D: Incorrect. Horizontal doesn't have lower radiation resistance - both can have similar radiation resistance. Radiation resistance isn't the advantage.

Exam Tip

Horizontal vs vertical advantage = lower ground losses. Think 'H'orizontal = 'H'igher above ground = 'L'ower ground losses. Horizontal antennas have less interaction with ground, reducing ground losses. Not lower impedance, not shorter radials, not lower radiation resistance - just lower ground losses.

Memory Aid

Horizontal vs vertical advantage = lower ground losses. Think 'H'orizontal = 'L'ower ground losses. Horizontal antennas have less interaction with ground, reducing ground losses. Key advantage of horizontal polarization.

Real-World Example

A horizontal dipole vs a vertical antenna: The horizontal antenna has less interaction with the ground (it's typically higher), resulting in lower ground losses. Vertical antennas interact more with the ground, causing higher ground losses. Lower ground losses is a key advantage of horizontal polarization on HF.

Source & Coverage

Question Pool: 2023-2027 Question Pool

Subelement: G9B

Reference: 2023-2027 Question Pool · G9 - Antennas and Feed Lines

Key Concepts

Horizontal polarization Vertical polarization Lower ground losses Ground interaction

Verified Content

Question from the official FCC General Class pool. Explanation reviewed by licensed amateur radio operators and mapped to the G9B topic.