At the ends of a half-wave antenna, what values of current and voltage exist compared to the remainder of the antenna?

Study for the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Element 3 Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Get prepared for your exam today!

In a half-wave antenna, the distribution of current and voltage along its length is a result of the standing wave pattern created by the interference between the forward and reflected traveling waves. At the ends of the antenna, which are the points of open circuit, you will find maximum voltage. This is because, at these locations, the waves are adding constructively, leading to high voltage levels.

Conversely, at the ends of the antenna, the current is at a minimum due to the nature of the standing wave pattern; current tends to be lowest where voltage is highest. Essentially, the extreme ends of the half-wave antenna are points where energy is not fully being converted into radiated electromagnetic waves, which corresponds to low current. This relationship between voltage and current is fundamental in understanding how antennas operate, particularly in resonance conditions.

Therefore, it is accurate to state that at the ends of a half-wave antenna, there is maximum voltage and minimum current.

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