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Wireless & Mobility · Intermediate

Refraction

Bending of an RF wave as it passes between media of different densities.

Definition

Refraction changes the direction of a wave when it moves through materials or air layers with different densities, such as temperature or humidity layers. It is most significant on long outdoor links where atmospheric conditions vary. Refraction can cause an outdoor link to drift in and out of alignment.

Example

Morning fog layers can refract a long point-to-point bridge signal.

Exam tip

Refraction bends; reflection bounces; diffraction bends around; scattering spreads.

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