Radio waves come in various types, classified mainly by their frequency ranges and wavelengths. Each type has specific uses based on how it propagates and interacts with the environment. Here are the main types:
- Very Low Frequency (VLF):
- Frequency: 3 kHz – 30 kHz
- Wavelength: 10 – 100 km
- Uses: Submarine communication, navigation systems.
- Low Frequency (LF):
- Frequency: 30 kHz – 300 kHz
- Wavelength: 1 – 10 km
- Uses: Maritime communication, long-range navigation.
- Medium Frequency (MF):
- Frequency: 300 kHz – 3 MHz
- Wavelength: 100 – 1000 meters
- Uses: AM radio broadcasting, maritime communication.
- High Frequency (HF):
- Frequency: 3 MHz – 30 MHz
- Wavelength: 10 – 100 meters
- Uses: Shortwave radio, international broadcasting, aviation communication.
- Very High Frequency (VHF):
- Frequency: 30 MHz – 300 MHz
- Wavelength: 1 – 10 meters
- Uses: FM radio, television broadcasts, two-way radios.
- Ultra High Frequency (UHF):
- Frequency: 300 MHz – 3 GHz
- Wavelength: 10 cm – 1 meter
- Uses: TV broadcasting, mobile phones, Wi-Fi, GPS.
- Super High Frequency (SHF):
- Frequency: 3 GHz – 30 GHz
- Wavelength: 1 cm – 10 cm
- Uses: Radar, satellite communication, microwave links.
- Extremely High Frequency (EHF):
- Frequency: 30 GHz – 300 GHz
- Wavelength: 1 mm – 1 cm
- Uses: Advanced satellite communication, radio astronomy, experimental purposes.