Question

Distinguish between sky wave and space wave propagation. Give a brief description with the help of suitable diagrams indicating how these waves are propagated.

Answer 1

In sky wave propagation, the transmitted radio waves reach the receiving antenna after reflection from the ionosphere. Whereas, in space wave propagation or line of sight propagation, radio waves travel in straight line from transmitting to receiving antenna. 

(i) Sky wave propagation : Here the radio waves reach the receiving antenna from transmitting antenna after reflection from ionosphere.

(ii) Space wave propagation : Here the transmitted radio waves reach the receiver through a ‘line of sight’ straight propagation. The range of such a transmission is limited by the curvature of the earth.