North Carolina RADAR State Practice Exam

What is the wavelength of a K-Band RADAR signal?

1. 1.25 centimeters

2. 4/5 centimeters

3. 0.5 centimeters

4. 1 centimeter

The correct answer is: 1.25 centimeters

The wavelength of a K-Band RADAR signal is determined by its frequency. The K-Band is typically defined within the frequency range of 18 to 27 GHz, with most RADAR systems operating around 24 GHz. To find the wavelength, you can use the relationship between wavelength, frequency, and the speed of light. The formula is: \[ \text{Wavelength} (\lambda) = \frac{c}{f} \] where \( c \) is the speed of light (approximately \( 3 \times 10^8 \) meters per second) and \( f \) is the frequency in hertz. For a rough calculation at 24 GHz (which is 24 billion hertz or \( 24 \times 10^9 \) Hz): \[ \lambda = \frac{3 \times 10^8 \text{ m/s}}{24 \times 10^9 \text{ Hz}} \] \[ \lambda \approx 0.0125 \text{ m} \] Converting meters to centimeters gives: \[ 0.0125 \text{ m} = 1.25 \text{ cm} \] This shows that the wavelength of a