Glossary
absorption
(1) Absorbing light waves. Does not allow any reflection
or refraction. (2) Atmospheric absorption of RF energy
with no reflection or refraction (adversely affects long
distance communications).
The science of sound.
alternating current
An electrical current, which constantly changes
(AC)
amplitude and polarity at regular intervals.
amplitude
The portion of a cycle measured from a reference line to
a maximum value above (or to a maximum value below)
the line.
angle of incidence
The angle between the incident wave and the normal.
angle of reflection
The angle between the reflected wave and the normal.
angle of refraction
The angle between the normal and the path of a wave
through the second medium.
angstrom unit
The unit used to define the wavelength of light waves.
anisotropic
The property of a radiator to emit strong radiation in
one direction.
antenna
A conductor or set of conductors used either to radiate
RF energy into space or to collect RF energy from space.
AR
Army regulation
array of arrays
Same as COMBINATION ARRAY.
bay
Part of an antenna array.
beverage antenna
A horizontal, longwire antenna designed for reception
and transmission of low-frequency, vertically polarized
ground waves.
bidirectional array
An array that radiates in opposite directions along the
line of maximum radiation.
broadside array
An array in which the direction of maximum radiation
is perpendicular to the plane containing the elements.
Glossary-1
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