FM radio waves and radio stations

[coktail]

Hi there. I have a (hopefully) quick question here.

FM radio stations transmit their information by manipulating the frequency of radio waves, but each radio station is assigned to a specific frequency. If the frequency broadcasted by a radio station is constantly changing (to transmit info), how is it that you stay locked into a single station?

I hope that makes sense, and thanks!

 

[sas3]

To modulate the signal FM radio station only use a deviation of 75 kHz from center frequency.

 

[coktail]

Thanks!

 

[skeptic2]

Each FM broadcast station is given a channel width of 200 kHz. As sas3 said the signal varies by up to 75 kHz from the center of the channel resulting in a occupied bandwidth of approximately 150 MHz with a guard band of 25 kHz on each side. Even with the guard band, stations on adjacent frequencies are spaced far apart geographically.

 

[alphysicist]

Hi there,

Thank you for your question. I would be happy to explain how FM radio waves and radio stations work.

FM (Frequency Modulation) radio stations use a technique called frequency modulation to transmit their information. This means that the frequency of the radio waves being transmitted is constantly changing to carry the audio signals. However, as you mentioned, each radio station is assigned to a specific frequency. This is known as the carrier frequency and it is the main frequency that the station uses to transmit its signals.

When you tune your radio to a specific station, the radio receiver is designed to pick up the carrier frequency of that station. This frequency is then amplified and the audio signals are separated from it. The audio signals are then sent to the speaker of your radio, allowing you to hear the broadcast.

The reason you stay locked into a single station is because your radio receiver is designed to only pick up the carrier frequency of that specific station. It filters out all other frequencies, allowing you to hear a clear and uninterrupted broadcast from that station.

I hope this explanation helps to clarify your question. Let me know if you have any further inquiries. Thank you.