The frequency of radio waves significantly affects how they propagate through the environment. Here’s how different frequencies behave:
- Low-Frequency Waves (e.g., LF, MF, HF):
- These waves have longer wavelengths and can travel long distances by bending around obstacles and following the Earth’s curvature (ground waves).
- Some low-frequency waves can also be reflected by the ionosphere, enabling skywave propagation that allows communication beyond the horizon, sometimes thousands of kilometers away.
- High-Frequency Waves (e.g., VHF, UHF):
- These have shorter wavelengths and generally travel in straight lines (line-of-sight).
- They do not bend around obstacles easily and are blocked by buildings, hills, and the Earth’s curvature, limiting their range.
- These frequencies are used for local broadcasting, TV, and mobile communications.
- Very High Frequencies and Above (SHF, EHF):
- These microwaves have very short wavelengths and propagate mostly in straight lines.
- They are more susceptible to absorption by atmospheric gases and weather conditions like rain, limiting their effective range.