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Name:  joey
Status:  student
Age:  20s
Location: N/A
Country: N/A
Date: 2000-2001
Question:
Why does AM have longer range than FM?

Replies:
AM has longer range because its wavelengths are so much longer. An AM wave is about 500 meters long. An FM wave is only around 10 meters long. An AM wave seldom notices things as small as cars or houses as it travels through the air. An FM wave can be affected by anything at least a few feet wide.

Mellendorf

The frequencies used in AM broadcasting are reflected by the ionosphere and by the earth so these frequencies can bounce back and forth. On the other hand, the frequencies used in FM broadcasting are not reflected by the ionosphere, so the reception of these signals is pretty much "line of sight", approximately.

Vince Calder

Because the wavelength of the signal is longer, thus, it can reach farther distances.

Katie Page


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