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Wireless & Mobility · Intermediate

Diffraction

Bending of an RF wave around the edge of an obstacle, creating an RF shadow behind it.

Definition

Diffraction occurs when a wave encounters an obstruction and bends around it. The area directly behind the obstacle receives a weaker signal called an RF shadow. Lower frequencies diffract more readily than higher ones.

Example

Signal bends around the corner of a building to reach a parking lot.

Exam tip

An RF shadow behind an obstacle is a diffraction effect.

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