Question T3B02
From subelement T3 - T3B
What property of a radio wave defines its polarization?
Why is this correct?
The orientation of the electric field defines a radio wave's polarization. Think of a radio wave like a rope being waved: if the electric field moves up and down, the wave is vertically polarized; if it moves side to side, it's horizontally polarized. The magnetic field (B) is always perpendicular to the electric field but doesn't define polarization. Options C and D describe mathematical relationships between wave properties, not polarization itself.
Memory tip
Remember the simple pattern: polarization always follows the electric field orientation. When you see 'polarization' in any radio question, immediately think about which direction the electric field is pointing—this applies whether discussing antennas, wave propagation, or signal reception.
Learn more
In practical amateur radio operation, antenna polarization directly affects signal strength and communication quality. When your handheld's antenna is vertical, you're creating vertically polarized waves. For long-distance VHF/UHF work, horizontal polarization is preferred because beam antennas mount more easily horizontally. Understanding electric field orientation helps you optimize antenna positioning for better contacts and explains why mismatched polarization reduces received signal strength.
Think about it
Why do you think the electric field, rather than the magnetic field, determines how we classify and work with radio wave polarization in amateur radio applications?