Presentation
A Review of High Frequency Radio Wave Absorption
2017 Space Weather Conference
(2017)
Abstract
Although the technology dates back nearly to Marconi and his wireless telegraph, the high-frequency (HF) radio spectrum continues to be a useful communications medium. Since long-distance HF propagation depends on the ionosphere, HF propagation is subject to variations in ionospheric characteristics. Chief among these characteristics is the density of free electrons. The sun provides the energy required to ionize neutral atmospheric constituents. Hence, the production and loss of free electrons is not constant. Day/night variations as well as the ebb and flow of the 11-year solar cycle cause changes in the density of free electrons. In addition, space weather events such as solar flares can greatly enhance free electron production. What effects do changes in the density of free electrons have on HF propagation? One important negative effect is HF radio wave absorption. By understanding the mechanics of absorption we will be better-able to study space weather related events and their impact on HF propagation.
Keywords
- High-frequency Radio Wave Absorption,
- D-region Absorption,
- Electron Density
Disciplines
Publication Date
Spring 2017
Location
Denver, CO
Comments
This poster along with the accompanying presentation and report were part of my USU candidacy exam as a PhD student. It was presented to the physics faculty at Utah State on 30 March 2017 and was very well received.
Citation Information
David Alan Smith. "A Review of High Frequency Radio Wave Absorption" 2017 Space Weather Conference (2017) Available at: http://works.bepress.com/david-smith/10/