What is the difference between plane wave & modulated continuous wave?

In summary, the two concepts being discussed are plane waves and modulated continuous waves. A plane wave is an electromagnetic wave that propagates after traveling a moderate distance from its source, while modulated continuous waves are electromagnetic waves that carry some form of modulation on them. The two concepts are different in terms of their characteristics and applications, but they can both be used for communication purposes. Further information and clarification can be found by reading about these concepts in more detail.
  • #1
faryafada
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What is the relation between these two concepts?
 
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  • #2
faryafada said:
What is the relation between these two concepts?

Can you tell us what you know so far? The two concepts are fairly different...
 
  • #3
berkeman said:
Can you tell us what you know so far? The two concepts are fairly different...

I have initial information about both waves and their characteristics but I am confused to find a relation between the two when it comes to make a comparison.
 
  • #4
It is not obvious in what context you are asking the question. I think a modulated continuous wave could be radiated as a time varying series of plane waves, kinda.
 
  • #5
faryafada said:
I have initial information about both waves and their characteristics but I am confused to find a relation between the two when it comes to make a comparison.

A plane wave is an EM wave that is propagating after traveling a moderate distance (a few wavelengths) from its source (like an antenna or other EM radiation source):

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plane_wave

Your term "modulated continuous waves" would just seem to imply that the EM waveform carries some form of modulation on it, whether it's AM or FM or some other modulation scheme:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Modulation

Modulated continuous waves could be carried on wired transmission lines, which would not qualify as "plane waves". Or the modulated continuous waves could be FM radio transmissions that you receive in your car as you drive around the city, and those are indeed plane waves carrying the sound information.

Please read those two web pages in detail, to see if they help to answer your question. If you still have specific questions after reading those pages, please post them here in this thread.
 
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FAQ: What is the difference between plane wave & modulated continuous wave?

What is the difference between plane wave & modulated continuous wave?

A plane wave is a type of electromagnetic wave that has a constant amplitude and phase across all points in space. This means that the wave appears as a straight line on a graph, with no peaks or valleys. On the other hand, a modulated continuous wave is a type of electromagnetic wave where the amplitude and/or phase changes over time. This results in a wave that appears as a curved line on a graph, with peaks and valleys.

How are plane waves and modulated continuous waves used in technology?

Plane waves are commonly used in technologies such as radar, satellite communications, and WiFi. This is because they can travel long distances without significant loss of signal strength. Modulated continuous waves, on the other hand, are used in technology such as radio broadcasting, cellular communications, and television broadcasting. This is because they allow for the transmission of different types of information, such as audio and video signals, over long distances.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of using plane waves?

The main advantage of using plane waves is their ability to travel long distances without significant loss of signal strength. This makes them ideal for long-range communication and imaging. However, the downside is that plane waves do not allow for the transmission of different types of information, as they have a constant amplitude and phase.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of using modulated continuous waves?

The main advantage of using modulated continuous waves is their ability to carry different types of information, such as audio and video signals, over long distances. This makes them ideal for broadcasting and cellular communications. However, the downside is that they may experience more signal loss over distance compared to plane waves, and they are also more susceptible to interference.

Can plane waves and modulated continuous waves be converted into each other?

Yes, it is possible to convert a plane wave into a modulated continuous wave and vice versa. This is commonly done using devices such as antennas, which can convert between different types of electromagnetic waves. However, the conversion process may result in some signal loss and distortion.

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