Question T0C04
From subelement T0 - T0C
What factors affect the RF exposure of people near an amateur station antenna?
Why is this correct?
All three factors directly affect RF exposure levels. Higher frequency and power create stronger fields. Distance follows the inverse square law—doubling distance reduces exposure to one-quarter. The antenna's radiation pattern determines where RF energy is concentrated and focused. Since each factor independently influences how much RF energy reaches a person, all these choices work together to determine total exposure.
Memory tip
Look for 'All these choices are correct' when each option represents a different physical principle affecting the same outcome. Here, power/frequency affects field strength, distance affects field intensity via physics laws, and radiation patterns affect directional concentration—three separate mechanisms all influencing RF exposure.
Learn more
These three factors form the foundation of RF exposure evaluation required under Part 97. Frequency determines absorption rates in human tissue, power level sets field strength, distance governs field intensity through space, and radiation patterns control directional energy distribution. Understanding these relationships helps you properly evaluate station compliance with maximum permissible exposure limits and implement effective mitigation strategies when needed.
Think about it
Why do you think the FCC requires amateur operators to consider all these factors together rather than just focusing on transmitter power alone when evaluating RF safety compliance?