What is the necessary Q for good AM reception?

In summary, AM radio receivers need a large Q factor to have a sharper resonance and prevent interference between stations. The Q factor quantifies the spread in frequencies produced by an electronic oscillator and a higher Q is needed to ensure that signals from different stations do not overlap. The minimum Q factor required for good AM reception can be estimated by using the given frequency difference between stations.
  • #1
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Homework Statement



AM radio allows a speration of 10kHz between frequencies of different radio stations. Why do AM radio receivers need a large Q? Estimate the Q required for good AM reception.

The Attempt at a Solution



I'm really not sure where to begin! :confused:
 
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  • #3
It's not in my textbook but I found out that AM radio receivers need a large q-factor to have a sharper resonance. However I can't find Q required for good AM reception. Any suggestions?
 
  • #4
A electronic oscillator produces em waves at a certain frequency. But the waves are not confined to a particular frequency, instead they spread over a range of frequencies. The most intense radiation (largest power output) is at its resonance frequency. The Q factor quantifies this spread in frequencies. If the stations are too close together the signals from the various transmitters will interfere with the reception.
 
  • #5
Thanks for that more thorough explanation. Still don't know what a good Q is for radio reception though -_-"
 
  • #6
The signals from one station should not overlap with the signal from another station. So you use the given frequency difference between stations to check what the minimum Q factor should be at the mid AM frequency transmissions.
 
  • #7

1. What are radio waves?

Radio waves are a type of electromagnetic radiation that have long wavelengths and low frequencies. They are used to carry information through the air, such as radio and television signals.

2. How are radio waves produced?

Radio waves are produced by accelerating charged particles, such as electrons, in an antenna. When these charged particles are accelerated, they create a changing electric field, which in turn creates a magnetic field. The combined electric and magnetic fields make up the radio wave.

3. How do radio waves carry information?

Radio waves carry information through changes in their amplitude, frequency, or phase. In amplitude modulation (AM), the amplitude of the radio wave is varied to carry the information. In frequency modulation (FM), the frequency of the wave is varied. In phase modulation (PM), the phase of the wave is varied.

4. How do radio waves interact with charged particles in the atmosphere?

Radio waves can be absorbed, scattered, or reflected by charged particles in the atmosphere. The type of interaction depends on the frequency of the radio wave and the properties of the charged particles. For example, low-frequency waves are more likely to be reflected by the ionosphere, while high-frequency waves are more likely to be absorbed by water vapor in the atmosphere.

5. How are radio waves used in everyday life?

Radio waves have numerous practical applications in our daily lives. They are used for communication, such as radio and television broadcasting, cell phone signals, and Wi-Fi networks. They are also used in radar systems for navigation and in medical imaging technologies like MRI machines.

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