ATPL EASA Radio Navigation Practice Exam

Ground waves are a type of electromagnetic wave that propagate along the surface of the Earth. One of their defining characteristics is that they follow the curvature of the Earth, allowing them to travel over distances that would be difficult for other types of waves. This is particularly important in radio communications, as it enables reliable signal coverage over geographical obstacles and varying terrain.

The ability of ground waves to bend with the Earth's surface makes them effective for long-range communication, particularly in the medium frequency (MF) band, where they are most commonly used for AM radio broadcasting. They can operate effectively for distances up to a certain point, beyond which other propagation methods, like sky waves, might take over but are often subject to different limitations.

Ground waves do not rely on high frequencies, and while they do not reflect off the ionosphere, that is a characteristic of sky waves which use the ionosphere for long-distance propagation. Additionally, ground waves do not require satellite assistance, as they can propagate directly along the Earth's surface.