How is range determined in radar?

Study for the Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

How is range determined in radar?

Explanation:
Range is determined by the time-of-flight of the radar signal. A pulse is transmitted, reflects off a target, and returns to the radar. By measuring how long this round trip takes and using the speed of light, you convert time into distance. The distance to the target is about one-half the product of the speed of light and the round-trip time: R = c × t / 2. Doppler shift relates to relative motion, not distance; the object's size or echo color doesn’t set range.

Range is determined by the time-of-flight of the radar signal. A pulse is transmitted, reflects off a target, and returns to the radar. By measuring how long this round trip takes and using the speed of light, you convert time into distance. The distance to the target is about one-half the product of the speed of light and the round-trip time: R = c × t / 2. Doppler shift relates to relative motion, not distance; the object's size or echo color doesn’t set range.

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