What is the velocity of a radio wave traveling through free space?

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Study for the FCC Ham Radio Technician Test. Ace your exam with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations.

Multiple Choice

What is the velocity of a radio wave traveling through free space?

Explanation:
Radio waves travel through free space at the speed of light, which is approximately 299,792 kilometers per second (or about 186,282 miles per second). This speed is a fundamental constant of nature, denoted as "c" in physics. Radio waves are a form of electromagnetic radiation, and like all electromagnetic waves, they move through a vacuum with this maximum speed. In contrast, other options refer to different types of wave propagation. The speed of sound, for example, is much slower and depends on the medium (such as air or water) through which it travels. The speed of electricity can be misleading because it refers to the speed at which an electric signal travels through a conductor, which is generally slower than the speed of light. Water waves also travel at different speeds depending on their characteristics and the medium. Therefore, the speed of light is the only correct answer related to radio wave propagation in free space.

Radio waves travel through free space at the speed of light, which is approximately 299,792 kilometers per second (or about 186,282 miles per second). This speed is a fundamental constant of nature, denoted as "c" in physics. Radio waves are a form of electromagnetic radiation, and like all electromagnetic waves, they move through a vacuum with this maximum speed.

In contrast, other options refer to different types of wave propagation. The speed of sound, for example, is much slower and depends on the medium (such as air or water) through which it travels. The speed of electricity can be misleading because it refers to the speed at which an electric signal travels through a conductor, which is generally slower than the speed of light. Water waves also travel at different speeds depending on their characteristics and the medium. Therefore, the speed of light is the only correct answer related to radio wave propagation in free space.

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