Deep Dive: T5B04
The correct answer is A: One one-millionth of a volt. One microvolt equals one one-millionth of a volt. The prefix 'micro-' means one-millionth, so 1 μV = 0.000001 V or 1/1,000,000 V. This is a unit conversion for very small voltages. Microvolts (μV) are used for measuring very weak signals, such as received radio signals. Understanding microvolts is important for understanding receiver sensitivity - a receiver that can detect signals as weak as 1 microvolt is very sensitive. The micro- prefix always means one-millionth.
Why Other Answers Are Wrong
Option B: Incorrect. One million volts is 1 megavolt, not 1 microvolt. You have the relationship completely reversed. Option C: Incorrect. One thousand kilovolts equals 1,000,000 volts (1 megavolt), not 1 microvolt. This is way too large. Option D: Incorrect. One one-thousandth of a volt is 1 millivolt, not 1 microvolt. A microvolt is much smaller - one-millionth, not one-thousandth.
Exam Tip
Microvolt = One-millionth of a volt. Remember: One microvolt (1 μV) equals one one-millionth of a volt (0.000001 V). Micro- means one-millionth.
Memory Aid
**M**icrovolt = **M**illionth of **V**olt (think 'MV = MV' = Millionth of Volt)
Real-World Example
A very sensitive receiver might be able to detect signals as weak as 0.5 microvolts (0.0000005 volts). This is an extremely small voltage - one-millionth of a volt. Understanding microvolts helps you understand receiver sensitivity specifications. A receiver rated for 0.5 μV sensitivity can detect very weak signals.
Source & Coverage
Question Pool: 2022-2026 Question Pool
Subelement: T5B
Reference: FCC Part 97.3
Key Concepts
Verified Content
Question from the official FCC Technician Class pool. Explanation reviewed by licensed amateur radio operators and mapped to the T5B topic.