What type of radar requires an airborne transponder to operate effectively?

What type of radar requires an airborne transponder to operate effectively?

• A. Primary radar
• B. Secondary radar
• C. Weather radar
• D. Altitude radar

Answer: (B)

The correct answer is secondary radar, which relies on an airborne transponder to function effectively. Unlike primary radar, which detects objects by sending out pulses of radio waves and measuring the reflections off of those objects, secondary radar operates on a different principle. It sends out interrogation signals that prompt a response from an aircraft's transponder. The transponder then transmits back specific information, such as the aircraft's identity and altitude, which is critical for air traffic control and situational awareness. This interaction allows secondary radar to provide more precise data about the position and status of aircraft compared to primary radar. The use of transponders enhances the radar’s capabilities, enabling features like identification and altitude reporting, which are crucial for effective air traffic management. Weather radar and altitude radar have distinct functions that do not depend on airborne transponders, focusing instead on weather pattern detection and altitude measurements, respectively.

The correct answer is secondary radar, which relies on an airborne transponder to function effectively. Unlike primary radar, which detects objects by sending out pulses of radio waves and measuring the reflections off of those objects, secondary radar operates on a different principle. It sends out interrogation signals that prompt a response from an aircraft's transponder. The transponder then transmits back specific information, such as the aircraft's identity and altitude, which is critical for air traffic control and situational awareness.

This interaction allows secondary radar to provide more precise data about the position and status of aircraft compared to primary radar. The use of transponders enhances the radar’s capabilities, enabling features like identification and altitude reporting, which are crucial for effective air traffic management.

Weather radar and altitude radar have distinct functions that do not depend on airborne transponders, focusing instead on weather pattern detection and altitude measurements, respectively.