What is antenna polarization?

• A. The mechanical tilt of the antenna.
• B. The frequency stability of the transmitter.
• C. The amplitude of the radiated signal.
• D. The orientation of the electromagnetic fields produced by an antenna.

Answer: (D)

Polarization is the orientation of the electromagnetic fields produced by the antenna as the wave propagates. The electric field vector defines the polarization, with the magnetic field perpendicular to it and to the direction of travel. If the antenna feeds so the electric field oscillates in a fixed plane, that’s linear polarization in that plane. If the fields rotate over time, you get circular or elliptical polarization. This orientation matters because the receiving antenna must align with the transmitted field to maximize power transfer; a mismatch reduces signal strength. The other options describe beam direction, carrier frequency stability, and signal amplitude, which are about where the beam goes or how strong it is, not how the fields are oriented.