FCC Question Pool Review

Technician Class (Element 2) • 2022-2026

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Question T5B07

From subelement T5 - T5B

T5B07
Answer: C

Which is equal to 3.525 MHz?

A0.003525 kHz
B35.25 kHz
C3525 kHz
D3,525,000 kHz

Why is this correct?

3.525 MHz equals 3525 kHz because MHz (megahertz) is 1000 times larger than kHz (kilohertz). To convert MHz to kHz, multiply by 1000. So 3.525 × 1000 = 3525 kHz. Choice A (0.003525 kHz) divides instead of multiplying. Choice B (35.25 kHz) only multiplies by 10. Choice D (3,525,000 kHz) multiplies by 1,000,000, which would convert MHz to Hz, not kHz.

Memory tip

Remember the metric ladder: each step up multiplies by 1000. From kHz to MHz is one step up the ladder, so going backwards (MHz to kHz) means multiplying by 1000. The decimal point moves three places right when converting from larger to smaller units.

Learn more

Frequency conversions are fundamental to amateur radio operation. When you tune your transceiver, you're working with these units constantly. The 80-meter band spans 3.5-4.0 MHz, which corresponds to 3500-4000 kHz. Understanding these conversions helps you navigate band plans, identify frequency privileges within your license class, and communicate precise operating frequencies during nets or contests.

Think about it

Why do you think amateur radio uses both MHz and kHz designations for different frequency ranges, and how might this help operators quickly identify which band they're discussing?