What happens to Amplitude as the distance from the transmitting site increases?

Prepare for the ATPL Canadian Meteorology, Radio Aids to Navigation, and Flight Planning Test with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Comprehensive coverage of exam content ensures you're ready to take on the challenge!

As the distance from the transmitting site increases, the amplitude of a radio signal decreases. This phenomenon occurs due to the inverse square law, which states that the intensity of a signal is inversely proportional to the square of the distance from the source. As the distance doubles, the amplitude of the signal drops to a quarter of its original level, resulting in a significant reduction in the strength of the signal as it travels away from the transmitter.

In practical terms, this means that as you move farther from the transmitting site, the signals you receive will be weaker and may become harder to detect, potentially leading to issues in navigation and communication. Understanding this behavior is crucial for accurate assessments of radio aids to navigation and for ensuring that pilots can maintain safe and reliable communication during their flights.

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