1.
Compare radio waves and microwaves, which differ in real-world
application.
Aspect Radio Waves Microwaves
Wavelength Long wavelengths (about 1 Shorter wavelengths (about 1 millimeter
Range millimeter to 100 kilometers) to 30 centimeters)
Frequency 3 kHz – 300 MHz 300 MHz – 300 GHz
Range
Main - Broadcasting: AM and FM radio, - Cooking: Microwave ovens heat food
Real-World television signals - by exciting water molecules -
Applications Communication: Walkie-talkies, Communication: Mobile phones, Wi-Fi,
marine and aircraft communication Bluetooth, satellite communication, radar
- Navigation: GPS uses parts of - Remote Sensing & Weather Radar:
radio spectrum - Astronomy: Used to detect objects and measure
Radio telescopes detect cosmic rainfall - Medical: Microwave imaging
signals and diathermy (deep tissue heating)
Penetration Can travel long distances and Shorter range; absorbed by water and
Ability penetrate through the atmosphere walls, making them useful for focused
easily communication
Antenna Size Large antennas (due to long Small antennas (due to short wavelength)
wavelength)
Propagation Reflects off the ionosphere — Travels in straight lines — used for
good for long-distance line-of-sight communication like radar
transmission and satellites
2. What use transmission media are used in your school?
In my school, different types of transmission media are used to transfer data and connect
computers within the network. These include:
1. Twisted Pair Cable:
This is the most common wired medium used for connecting computers in computer
labs and offices. It consists of pairs of copper wires twisted together to reduce
interference. It is used for local area network (LAN) connections and internet access.
2. Fiber Optic Cable:
Some parts of the school network may use fiber optic cables, especially between
buildings or to connect to the main internet service provider. It allows very high-speed
data transfer over long distances.
3. Wireless (Wi-Fi):
Wireless transmission media is widely used in the school. It allows students and
teachers to connect laptops, tablets, and smartphones to the school network and
internet without using physical cables.
4. Coaxial Cable (less common):
It may still be used for some older network systems or for connecting CCTV cameras
within the school.
In summary, twisted pair cables and wireless (Wi-Fi) are the most commonly used
transmission media in most schools today.
3. Write the characteristics of signals in different media?
Here are the characteristics of signals in different transmission media, explained clearly:
1. Twisted Pair Cable
Characteristics:
● Signal Type: Electrical signal.
● Bandwidth: Moderate (up to 1 Gbps for Cat5e/Cat6).
● Distance: Limited — signal weakens after about 100 meters.
● Interference: Prone to electromagnetic interference (EMI), though twisting reduces it.
● Cost: Inexpensive and easy to install.
2. Coaxial Cable
Characteristics:
● Signal Type: Electrical signal.
● Bandwidth: Higher than twisted pair.
● Distance: Can carry signals farther than twisted pair (up to a few kilometers with
amplifiers).
● Interference: Well-shielded, so it is less affected by EMI.
● Cost: More expensive than twisted pair but cheaper than fiber optic.
3. Fiber Optic Cable
Characteristics:
● Signal Type: Light signal (uses laser or LED).
● Bandwidth: Very high — supports data rates of several terabits per second.
● Distance: Can transmit data over long distances without much signal loss.
● Interference: Immune to electromagnetic interference.
● Cost: Expensive and more difficult to install, but highly reliable and fast.
4. Wireless (Radio Waves / Wi-Fi)
Characteristics:
● Signal Type: Electromagnetic (radio) waves.
● Bandwidth: Moderate to high, depending on technology (Wi-Fi 5, 6, etc.).
● Distance: Limited — usually up to 100 meters indoors.
● Interference: Affected by walls, other electronic devices, and weather conditions.
● Cost: Cheaper to set up since no cables are needed, but less secure.
5. Microwave Transmission
Characteristics:
● Signal Type: Electromagnetic waves (microwaves).
● Bandwidth: High — suitable for large data volumes.
● Distance: Used for long-distance communication (line-of-sight, up to 50 km).
● Interference: Affected by weather (rain, fog) and obstacles.
● Cost: Requires towers and antennas, so installation is costly.