Ham Amateur Radio Technician Practice Exam 2026 - Free Technician Practice Questions and Study Guide

RF (radio frequency) energy can indeed affect human body tissue primarily through the process of heating. When RF energy is absorbed by the body, it causes molecular agitation and vibration within the tissues, which ultimately leads to an increase in temperature. This thermal effect is similar to how microwaves work to heat food.

The human body can tolerate certain levels of RF exposure, but excessive exposure can result in thermal injuries. Regulatory bodies, such as the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), establish safety guidelines to limit RF exposure to prevent harmful heating effects.

While auditory sensations can be perceived at certain frequencies, and there are some claims about RF affecting physical strength or metabolism, these effects are not primarily due to the RF energy itself but may arise from other factors unrelated to typical RF exposure. Thus, the most significant and recognized impact of RF energy on human tissues is the heating of body tissue.