Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Characteristics of alternating currents

Characteristics of alternating currents — practice question

(a)[2]

State what the term amplitude modulation (AM) of a radio wave means.

(b)[3]

An audio signal is used to modulate a radio wave. Fig. 5.1 shows how the amplitude of the modulated wave varies with frequency $f$. Determine (i) the wavelength of the carrier wave, (ii) the bandwidth of the modulated wave, and (iii) the maximum frequency of the audio signal.

(b(i))[1]

Determine the wavelength associated with the carrier wave.

(b(ii))[1]

Determine the bandwidth shown by the modulated wave.

(b(iii))[1]

Determine the highest frequency of the audio signal.

(c)[3]

A radio signal has transmitter power $P_{T}$. At the receiver, the received power $P_{R}$ is given by $P_{R} = \frac{0.082\,P_{T}}{x^{2}}$, where $x$ is the separation, in metres, between the transmitter and the receiver. For this transmission, the attenuation is $73\,\text{dB}$. Determine the distance $x$.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 11-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: carrier wave amplitude changes

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