What is the radiation resistance of a short dipole antenna with length equal to λ/10?

Difficulty: Medium

Correct Answer: 7.8 Ω

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Radiation resistance is the equivalent resistance of an antenna that represents the power radiated as electromagnetic waves. Short dipoles (length ≪ λ) have radiation resistance that depends on their electrical length. This problem requires applying the standard formula for a dipole with length λ/10.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Antenna length L = λ/10.
  • Type: short dipole (length much less than half a wavelength).
  • Free-space radiation resistance formula is applicable.


Concept / Approach:
For a short dipole antenna: Rr ≈ 80π^2 (L/λ)^2. Substituting L/λ = 1/10 gives a numerical value.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Step 1: Formula: Rr = 80π^2 (L/λ)^2.Step 2: Substitute L/λ = 1/10 = 0.1.Step 3: Compute (0.1)^2 = 0.01.Step 4: Multiply: 80 * π^2 * 0.01 ≈ 80 * 9.8696 * 0.01 ≈ 7.9 Ω.Step 5: Closest option is 7.8 Ω.


Verification / Alternative check:

Cross-check with known rule: Radiation resistance for λ/2 dipole ≈ 73 Ω; for λ/10 dipole it should be much smaller (~8 Ω), consistent with result.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

8 Ω: Approximation but less precise than 7.8 Ω.780 Ω and 78 Ω: Orders of magnitude too high.1 Ω: Too low compared with formula prediction.


Common Pitfalls:

Forgetting the squared term (L/λ)^2; using λ/2 dipole values; confusing input impedance with radiation resistance.


Final Answer:

7.8 Ω

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