Ham Amateur Radio Technician Practice Exam

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Prepare for the Ham Amateur Radio Technician Exam. Access interactive flashcards, detailed multiple choice questions with hints and explanations to maximize your chances of success. Get confident and ready for your test today!

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Which statement is true regarding the reliability of the 10-meter band at low solar activity?

It remains consistently reliable
It is one of the least reliable bands
It is often the best band available
Its reliability is solely dependent on local conditions

The correct answer is: It is one of the least reliable bands

At low solar activity, the 10-meter band tends to be one of the least reliable bands for communication. This is primarily due to how solar activity influences ionospheric conditions. During periods of low solar flux, the ionosphere does not become as ionized, which significantly affects higher frequency bands like 10 meters. Consequently, propagation can be poor, resulting in less consistent communication opportunities. In contrast, bands that operate at lower frequencies, such as the 40-meter and 80-meter bands, tend to perform better during low solar activity because they rely less on ionospheric conditions and can support more reliable ground wave propagation, especially during nighttime. The 10-meter band is highly dependent on solar activity for effective communication; therefore, as solar activity diminishes, its reliability decreases.