Ham Amateur Radio Technician Practice Exam

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What is the primary reason for choosing single sideband over amplitude modulation?

Lower cost of equipment
Less bandwidth usage
Simpler operation
Higher modulation index

The correct answer is: Less bandwidth usage

Choosing single sideband (SSB) over amplitude modulation (AM) is primarily driven by the advantages in bandwidth usage. SSB transmits only one sideband (either the upper or lower sideband) and suppresses the carrier frequency, which results in significantly narrowing the bandwidth required for transmission. In contrast, AM uses a broader bandwidth because it conveys information through variations in signal amplitude around the carrier frequency, leading to the need for both the upper and lower sidebands along with the carrier itself. This makes SSB a more efficient mode of communication, allowing for more channels to be accommodated within the same frequency range. This efficiency in bandwidth usage is particularly important in amateur radio operations, where available spectrum can be limited. The remaining options, while they may present certain practical considerations, do not directly relate to the fundamental technical advantage of SSB concerning bandwidth efficiency. Lower equipment costs, simpler operation, and a higher modulation index do not encapsulate the primary technical reason driving the preference for SSB over AM in most communication scenarios.