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

Characteristics of alternating currents — practice question

(a)[1]

Suggest why attenuation of a signal in channels of communication is normally measured on a logarithmic scale rather than a linear one.

(b(i))[1]

For a communication channel with low attenuation, the input power is $6.5\,\text{mW}$ and the attenuation per unit length is $1.8\,\text{dB km}^{-1}$. Suggest the name of this communication channel.

(b(ii))[3]

Calculate the distance over which the signal power drops to $1.5 \times 10^{-15}\,\text{W}$.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 5-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Logarithmic scale yields smaller values and gains can be summed

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