Ham Radio General Class Practice Test

What is another term for the mixing of two RF signals?

1. Heterodyning

2. Synthesizing

3. Cancellation

4. Phase inverting

The correct answer is: Heterodyning

Heterodyning is the process of mixing two radio frequency (RF) signals to create new frequencies, specifically the sum and difference of the original frequencies. When two signals are combined in a non-linear mixer, the result is the generation of additional frequencies, which are essential in many radio applications, such as signal processing, modulation, and demodulation. This technique is widely used in superheterodyne receivers, allowing them to convert incoming RF signals to a lower intermediate frequency (IF) for easier processing. The term synthesizing typically refers to the generation of RF signals from a lower frequency reference, and while cancellation involves the reduction of noise or interference by combining signals, it does not describe the mixing process. Phase inverting relates to the alteration of the phase of a signal, which is different from the mixing that produces new frequencies. Thus, heterodyning specifically captures the essence of mixing RF signals, highlighting its role in generating new frequency components.