Other Important Chapter/Topics for Competitive Examinations Preparation.

Unit – x CHAPtER s

15
Communication
Systems

Chapter Analysis
List of Topics 2016 2017 2018
D OD D OD D/OD
Elements of 1Q
Communication System (2 marks) 1Q 1Q
– –
1Q (2 marks) (3 marks)
(3 marks)
Modulation 1Q 1Q
(1 mark) 1Q 1Q 1Q (2 marks)
1Q (1 mark) (3 marks) (3 marks) 1Q
(3 marks) (3 marks)

TopiC-1
Elements of Communication System

Revision Notes
TOPIC - 1
¾ Communication is the method of transmitting and receiving information
Elements of Communication System
of data. ... P. 391
¾ There may be two types of communication :
• Point to point communication : In this type of communication TOPIC - 2
transmitter and receiver are single point. Example : Telephonic Modulation .... P. 399
communication.
• Broadcasting communication : In this type of communication, there is one transmitter and many receivers.
Example : transmission of radio or television.
¾ When input message (any form of signal variation) is combined with some intelligence input (encoding and
compatibility in machine language), it becomes information.
¾ Generalised communication system :
Communication System

Information Message Transmitted Received User of

Transmitter Channel Receiver
Source Signal Signal Signal Message Information
Signal

Noise

Block diagram of a generalised Communication System

392 ] Oswaal CBSE Chapterwise & Topicwise Question Bank, PHYSICS, Class – XII

Important terminology and their application in communication system

¾ Information source : The information source is the generator of information which we want to communicate. It
may be audio, video or data.
¾ Electric Transducer : Electric transducer convert physical variable into electrical signal variable.
¾ Signal: Information converted in electrical form and suitable for transmission is called signal.
¾ Transmitter : Process of the incoming message signal and making it suitable for transmission through particular
channel.
¾ Noise : Unwanted signal which interferes with the information signal and disturbs the information.
¾ Channel : It is the medium through which signal from transmitter propagates to the receiver. For example :
optical fibre, coaxial cables etc.
¾ Receiver : Collects the message from the channel and extracts signal.
¾ Attenuation : Signal loses energy during propagation through channel. This is called attenuation.
¾ Amplifier : It is the device which increases the strength by increasing its amplitude.
¾ Range : Maximum distance between transmitter and receiver at which signal can be recovered is called the range
of communicating system.
¾ Bandwidth : It is the frequency range over which an equipment operates or range of frequencies a signal has.
¾ Modulation : Mixing of signal with carrier frequency is known as modulation.
¾ Demodulation : Extracting of signal from carrier frequency is known as demodulation.
¾ Repeater : It receives the signal, reconditions it and then retransmits it.
Signal may be classified in two categories :
¾ Analog Signal : Continuous variation of signal with respect to time is known as analog signal. For example :
telephonic signal, video signal etc.
In modern technology we can convert analog signal to digital signal for communicating and convert back to
analog signal at receiver.
¾ Digital Signal : Discrete value of signal variation with respect to time is known as digital signal. For example :
computer etc.
• Coding helps in sending digital signal with much more accuracy. There are several coding techniques. For
example in computer data, we employ suitable combinations of number systems such as the binary coded
decimal (BCD), American Standard Code for Information Interchange (ASCII)
¾ Operational advantages of digital communication system over analog communication systems are.
• An improved form of sending messages securely.
• Increased immunity to noise and external interference.
• A common format for encoding different kinds of message signals for the purpose of transmission.
• Flexibility in configuration of digital communication system.
¾ Hence in modern technology, analog signals are transmitted through digital communication. In the final stage
they are converted back to analog signals.
¾ Different types of message signals have different range of frequencies.
• Audio signal – 20 Hz to 20kHz
• Video signal – 4.2 MHz
• TV signal – 6 MHz (audio + video)
¾ Large bandwidth is required to accommodate complete information of wave.
¾ Frequency bands of some important wireless communications :
Service Frequency bands Comments
Standard AM broadcast 540-1600 kHz
FM broadcast 88-108 MHz
Television 54-72 MHz VHF (very high frequencies)
76-88 MHz TV
174-216 MHz UHF (ultra high frequencies)
420-890 MHz TV
Cellular Mobile Radio 896-901 MHz Mobile to base station
840-935 MHz Base station to mobile
Satellite Communication 5.925-6.425 GHz Uplink
3.7-4.2 GHz Downlink
CommuniCation systems [ 393

Propagation of Electromagnetic wave :

¾ Earth’s atmosphere plays a vital role in propagation of electromagnetic wave. There are three ways of
communication through electromagnetic wave.
¾ Ground Wave :
(i) The radio waves which travel through atmosphere following the surface of the earth are called ground waves
or surface waves and their propagation is known as ground wave propagation or surface wave propagation.
(ii) The ground waves have vertical orientation and travel parallel to the ground.
(iii) The ground wave propagation is suitable for low and medium frequency, i.e., from few hundred kHz to 2
MHz only.
(iv) Its power is less as they operate in low frequency.
λ
(v) It can bend round the corners of the object on the earth, hence can jump the restriction. ( θ = , low
a
frequency means l is more so more bending)
(vi) Attenuation is high for ground wave transmission and increases with increase in frequency. This is because
more absorption of ground waves (near earth) takes place at higher frequency during propagation through
atmosphere.
(vii) Length of antenna is directly proportional to the wavelength of EM wave. Hence, for ground wave large
antenna is required.
(viii) The ground wave propagation is generally used for local band broadcasting and is commonly known as
medium wave. Local transmitter, police walkie talkie , AM transmitter are some of its examples.
Sky wave propagation :
(i) The sky waves are the radio waves of frequency between few MHz to 40 MHz.
(ii) These radio waves can propagate in atmosphere and are reflected back by the ionosphere of earth’s
atmosphere.
(iii) The sky waves travel from transmitter antenna to receiver antenna, through sky they reflect back from
ionosphere. Hence, their propagation is called sky wave propagation.
(iv) Critical frequency (fc) is that highest frequency of radio waves, which when sent straight (i.e., normally)
towards the layer of ionosphere gets reflected and returns to the earth. If the frequency of radio waves is
more than the critical frequency, it will not be reflected by the ionosphere.
(v) The value of C.F. is found to be 4 MHz, 5 MHz and 6 to 8 MHz for D (part of stratosphere), E (part of
stratosphere), F1 (part of mesosphere) and F2 (Thermosphere) layers of ionosphere which are at heights about
110 km, 180 km and 300 to 350 km respectively from the surface of earth.
(vi) Its range is very large as compared to range of ground wave. Range can be targeted and can be increased by
multiple transmitters.
• Limitations : 3 MHz to 30 MHz is very small bandwidth of frequency for present application. Higher frequencies
penetrate the ionosphere and can’t be reflected.
1.5
voltage (c) (b) (d)

1 (a)

0.5

0 0
0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 time 1

–0.5

–1

–1.5
Space wave propagation :
(i) It is used for very high frequency (> 40 MHz). These can penetrate ionosphere more efficiently.
(ii) Due to high frequency, wavelength is very small and energy is very high.
(iii)Television broadcast, microwave links and satellite communication are some examples of communication
systems that use space wave mode of propagation.
394 ] Oswaal CBSE Chapterwise & Topicwise Question Bank, PHYSICS, Class – XII

Line of sight communication by space wave :

¾ We also use this space wave in ground transmission. It is known as line of sight transmission.
¾ These are (space wave) high frequency hence they travel nearly in a line. Mobile transmission or microwave links
are based upon this.
¾ Earth’s curvature restrict the range of line of sight transmission. There is limited space between two antennas.
¾ If h is the height of transmitting antenna then its signal range is d = 2hR
¾ The range of communication dM between the transmitting antenna of height hT and the receiving antenna of
height hR is given by dM = 2 hT R + 2 hR R
where, R is the radius of the earth.
Area covered through one tower = pd2 = p × 2hR
Population covered = population density × area covered.
Satellite Communication :
¾ The satellite communication is a mode of communication of signal between a transmitter and a receiver through
a satellite.
¾ The satellite communication is like a line of sight microwave communication.
¾ Since, the satellite communication is through space hence, it is also part of space communication.
¾ A communication satellite is a space craft, provided with microwave receiver and transmitter. It is placed in an
orbit around the earth.
¾ In satellite communication, a beam of modulated microwave from the transmitter is sent directly towards the
communication satellite, which receives the coming signal, amplifies it and returns it to the earth. Transmitting
frequency (uplink) and receiving frequency (downlink) are different to avoid interference between the uplink
and the downlink.
¾ A satellite communication is possible through geostationary satellites.
¾ A single geostationary satellite cannot cover the whole part of the earth for microwave communication. It is so
because, the large part of the earth is out of sight due to the curvature of the earth. One satellite roughly covers
one third of earth.
¾ In order to have global transmission, at least three geostationary satellites are required, which are at particular
distance from each other.
¾ Global positioning system is also based upon satellite communication.

Very Short Answer Type Questions (1 mark each)

Q. 1. Which mode of propagation is used by short wave Q. 6. How does the effective power radiated from a
broadcast service ? R linear antenna depend on the wavelength of the
Ans. Sky wave propagation is used in short wave signal to be transmitted ?
broadcast service. Its frequency range is from few U [Delhi Comptt. I, II, III 2014]
MHz upto 40 MHz. 1
Q. 2. Name the essential components of a communication 1
Ans. Effective power ∝
system. R [O.D. I, II, III 2016] λ2
Ans. Transmitter, Medium or Channel and Receiver. 1 Alternatively, The effective power which
Q. 3. Why are micro waves considered suitable for radar is radiated decreases with an increase in
systems used in aircraft navigation ? wavelength. 1
R [2016 Delhi All set-3] [CBSE Marking Scheme, 2014]
Ans. Due to their short wavelengths, they are suitable for Q. 7. Draw a block diagram of a generalized
radar system used in aircraft navigation. 1 communication system.
Q. 4. What is the meaning of the term ‘attenuation’ used R [Delhi Comptt. I, II, III 2014]
in communication system ?
R [O.D. Comptt. I, II, III 2014] Ans. Refer Block diagram (Topic-I) Revision Notes
Alternatively, Also accept if the student gives
Ans. Attenuation is the loss of strength of a signal,
only the following diagram :
while propagating through a medium. 1
User
[CBSE Marking Scheme, 2014] Message
Transmitter Receiver
Signal
Q. 5. Give one example of point-to-point communication
mode. R [O.D. Comptt. I, II, III 2014] [CBSE Marking Scheme, 2014] 1
Ans. Telephony service is based upon point to point
communication. 1
CommuniCation systems [ 395

Short Answer Type Questions-I (2 marks each)

Q. 1. (i) What is line of sight communication ? Example : Point-to-point : telephone (any other) ½
(ii) Why is it not possible to use sky waves for Broadcast : T.V. Radio (any other) ½
transmission of TV signals? Upto what distance [CBSE Marking Scheme, 2017]
can a signal be transmitted using an antenna of
height ‘h’? R [2017 Delhi set-3]
Q. 6 A device X used in communication system can
convert one form of energy into another. Name the
Ans. (i) Communication, using waves which travel in device X. Explain the function of a repeater in a
straight line from transmitting antenna to receiving communication system.
antenna is called line of sight communication. 1 R [2016- Foreign Sets-I, II, III]
(ii) Because T.V. signal waves are not reflected back Or
by the ionosphere ½ Write the function of a (i) transducer and (ii)
d = 2hR ½ repeater in a communication system.
[CBSE Marking Scheme, 2017] [2016 -OD; south]
Q. 2. Which basic mode of communication is used in Ans. ‘X’ is a transducer It is a device which converts one
satellite communication ? What type of wave form of energy to another. 1
propagation is used in this mode ? Write, giving A repeater picks up the signal from the transmitter,
reason, the frequency range used in this mode of amplifies and transmits it to the receiver sometimes
propagation. R [2017 Delhi set-1] with a change in carrier frequency. Repeaters
Ans. Broadcast/point to point, mode of communication are used to extend / increase the range of a
½ communication system. 1
Space wave propagation ½
Q. 7. State the concept of mobile telephony and explain
Above 40 MHz ½
its working. R [2016-OD, east]
Because EM waves, of frequency above 40
MHz, are not reflected back by the ionosphere / Ans. Concept of mobile telephony is to divide the service
penetrate through the ionosphere. ½ area into a suitable number of cells centered on an
[CBSE Marking Scheme, 2017] office MTSO (Mobile Telephone Switching Office).
Q. 3. Distinguish between a transducer and a repeater. Mobile telephony means that you can talk to any
R [2017 Delhi set-2] person from anywhere. 1
Ans. Transducer : A device which converts one form of Explanation :
energy into another. 1 (i) Entire service area is divided into smaller parts
Repeater : A combination of receiver and called cells.
transmitter. It picks signals from a transmitter; (ii) Each cell has a base station to receive and send
amplifies and retransmits them. 1 signals to mobiles.
[CBSE Marking Scheme, 2017] (iii) Each base station is linked to MTSO. MTSO co-
Commonly Made Error ordinates between base station and TCO (Telephone
Control Office) 1
 Many students couldn’t define the tansducer.
Q. 8. Distinguish between any two types of propagation
Q. 4. A TV transmission tower antenna is at a height of of electromagnetic waves with respect to (i)
20 m. How much range can it cover if the receiving frequency range over which they are applicable,
antenna is at a height of 25 m? R [CBSE-SQP -2018]
(ii) communication systems in which they are
Ans. Range d = 2 hR + 2 hR R 1 used. U [CBSE SQP 2016]
Ans.
d= 2 × 20 × 6·4 × 10 6 + 2 × 25 × 6·4 × 10 6 Type of Frequency Use
d = 33.9 km 1 EM wave range
[CBSE Marking Scheme, 2018] propagation
Q. 5. Distinguish between broadcast mode and point- Ground wave 500–1500 KHz Standard AM
to-point mode of communication and give one broadcast
example for each. R [2017-Foreign Sets-I, II, III]
Space wave Above 40 MHz Television
Ans. In point-to-point communication mode, ½+½+½+½
communication takes place over a link between a Q. 9. Write the functions of the following in
single transmitter and a single receiver. ½ communication systems :
In the broadcast mode, there are large number of (i) Transmitter
receivers corresponding to a single transmitter. ½ (ii) Modulator R [Delhi 2014]
396 ] Oswaal CBSE Chapterwise & Topicwise Question Bank, PHYSICS, Class – XII

Ans. (i) Device used for communication which transmits Ans.

the signal by amplifying it.
S.No Sky Wave Space Wave
(ii) Device which merges the high frequency carrier
(i) Restricted up to a Can take place (even)
wave and low frequency base-band signal. 1+1 few MHz frequency beyond 40 MHz fre-
Q. 10. Write the functions of the following in (3 to 40 MHz). quency.
communication systems : (ii) Waves are reflected Space waves travel in
back from iono- a straight line, either
(i) Transducer sphere. directly from transmit-
(ii) Repeater R [O.D. I, II, III 2014] ting antenna to receiv-
ing antenna or, through
Ans. (i) Transducer : Any device that converts one
satellite.
form of energy to another. 1
[CBSE Marking Scheme, 2016] 2
(ii) Repeater : A repeater accepts the signal from the
Q. 12. Distinguish between ‘Analog and Digital signals’.
transmitter, amplifies and retransmits it to the U [Delhi I, II, III 2014]
receiver. [CBSE Marking Scheme, 2014] 1 Ans. Analog signals are continuous variations of
Q. 11. Distinguish between ‘sky wave’ and ‘space wave’ voltage or current. 1
modes of propagation in a communication system. Digital signals are those which can take only
discrete (step wise) values of current or voltage. 1
R [Delhi Comptt., I, II, III, 2016]
[CBSE Marking Scheme, 2014]

Short Answer Type Questions-II (3 marks each)

Q. 1. What is sky wave propagation ? Which frequency

range is suitable for sky wave propagation and Ans. Propagation of waves, along a straight path from
why ? Over which range of frequencies can the transmitting antenna to receiving antenna,
communication through free space using radio using line of sight (LOS) communication is called
waves take place ? U [2017, Foreign Set-II] space wave propagation. 1
Relevant system of communication :
Ans. In sky wave propagation, long distance
communication is achieved by ionospheric Television broadcast, microwave links and
reflection of radio waves back towards the earth. 1 satellite communication (any one) ½
The frequency range is from a few Mega hertz to
‘Radio horizon‘ equals the distance between the
30/40 Mega hertz. The ionospheric layers can act
as a reflector over this frequency range (3 MHz transmitting antenna and the point on the earth
to 30/40 MHz). Higher frequencies penetrate where the direct waves get blocked due to the
through it. 1 curvature of the earth.
The frequency range of radio frequencies is a few
hundred kHz to a few GHz. [Also accept d = 2hR ; h = height of transmitting
(waves having frequency beyond 40 MHz) 1 antenna, R = Radius of the earth.]
[CBSE Marking Scheme, 2017] At frequencies above 40 MHz, relatively smaller
antennas are needed and communication is
Commonly Made Error
essentially limited to line of sight paths. 1
 Many students confused ‘sky wave propogation’ [Alternatively,
with’ space wave propagation.‘
At frequencies (more than 40 MHz), EM waves
Q. 2. What is space wave propagation ? Which systems do not get bent or reflected by ionosphere.
of communication use space waves ? What is Therefore space wave propagation has to be used
‘radio horizon’ of a transmitting antenna of height for frequencies above 40 MHz.] 1
h ? Why is space wave propagation suitable for
frequencies above 40 MHz ?
U [2017 Foreign Set-III]

U [2017, OD Set-III]
CommuniCation systems [ 397

Ans. Communication System

Information Message Transmitted Received User of

Transmitter Channel Receiver
Source Signal Signal Signal Message Information
Signal

Noise

[Also accept the following diagram 1½

Information Communication Receiver of
→ →
source channel Information
(i) Transmitter : A transmitter processes the incoming message signal so as to make it suitable for transmission
through a channel and subsequent reception. ½
(ii) Channel : It carries the message signal from a transmitter to a receiver. ½
(iii) Receiver : A receiver extracts the desired message signals from the received signals at the channel output. ½
[CBSE Marking Scheme, 2017]

Commonly Made Error

 Few students couldn’t write the function of channel.
Q. 4. (i) Which mode of propagation is used by shortwave (ii) The service area is divided into a suitable number
broadcast services having frequency range from a of hexagonal cells centered on MTSO (Mobile
few MHz up to 30 MHz ? Explain diagrammatically Telephone Switching Office). Each cell contains
how long distance communication can be achieved a low-power transmitter called a base station and
by this mode. caters to a large number of mobile receivers / cell
(ii) Why is there an upper limit to frequency of waves phones. When a mobile receiver crosses one base
used in this mode ? U [O.D. I, II, III, 2016] station it is handed over to another base station . It
Ans. (i) Sky wave propagation. ½ is called handover or handoff. 1½
Q. 6. Mention three applications of the internet. Explain
one of these in detail. U [2016-OD, south]

Ans. Application of internet–e-mail, social networking

sites, e-commerce, mobile telephony, GPS.
[Any three] ½+½+½
Explanation of any one. 1½
[CBSE Marking Scheme, 2016]
1
Detailed Answer :
Long distance communication can be achieved by
One of the main use of internet is instant global
reflection of radio waves by the ionosphere, back
connectivity. It is very useful in e-learning sector.
towards the Earth. This ionosphere layer acts as Nowadays students from remote area can access
a reflector only for a certain range of frequencies. quality of education from different educational
(few MHz to 30 MHz) ½ website and e-lectures through internet. Interactive
(ii) Electromagnetic waves of frequencies higher than videos available in internet help them also.
30 MHz, penetrate the ionosphere and escape Q. 7. What is global positioning system ? Explain its
whereas the waves less than 3 MHz are reflected working in brief. U [2016 OD, east]
back to the earth by the ionosphere. 1 Ans. Global Positioning System (GPS) is method of
Q. 5. (i) Distinguish between point to point and identifying location or position of any point or a
broadcast modes of communication. Give an person on earth using a system of 24 satellites, which
example of each. are continuously orbiting, observing, monitoring
(ii) Explain the basic concept of mobile telephone. and mapping the earth. 1
U [2016 Foreign Set-1] Working Principle :
Ans. (i) In point to point communication mode, (i) The unique location of GPS user is determined
communication takes place over a link between a by measuring its distance from at least three GPS
single transmitter and a receiver. satellites. 1
In broadcast mode , there are a large number (ii) Using these values of distances, obtained from three
of receivers corresponding to a single satellites, a microprocessor, fitted in GPS device,
transmitter. Examples; Point to point : telephony determines the exact location. 1
Broadcast : radio / Television. 1½
398 ] Oswaal CBSE Chapterwise & Topicwise Question Bank, PHYSICS, Class – XII

Q. 8. What is space wave propagation ? State the factors (ii) The LOS (Line of sight) communication via space
which limit its range of propagation. Derive waves base (fairly) limited range.
an expression for the maximum line of sight (iii) A mobile phone user gets an ‘uninterrupted link
distance between two antennas for space wave
to talk’ while walking. U [Foreign, 2016]
propagation. U [2016; OD, North Set]
Ans. (i) The ionosphere can act as a ‘reflector’ only for EM
Ans. Space Wave Propagation : waves of frequencies up to 30 to 40 MHz. Higher
The mode of propagation in which radio waves frequency EM waves penetrate the ionosphere and
travel, along a straight line, from the transmitting escape. 1
to the receiving antenna. 1
(ii) The range is (fairly) limited because the EM waves
Limiting Factors :
loose energy (fairly rapidly) when they glide over
(i) Curvature of the earth
(ii) Insufficient height of the receiving antenna the surface of the earth. 1
(Award this ½ mark if the student writes any one (iii) This is because of the presence of a network of base
of these two factors) 1 stations/cells which keep on passing the signals
Derivation : from one base station/cell to the other. 1
W Q. 10. (i) What is line of sight (LOS) communication ?
h d What is the range of their frequencies ?
(ii) A transmitting antenna at the top of a tower has
Transmitting
a height of 20 m and the height of the receiving
Antenna
Limiting antenna is 45 m. Calculate the maximum distance
R Receiving between them for satisfactory communication in
R
Point LOS mode. (Radius of the Earth = 6.4 × 106 m)
U [O.D. I, II, III, 2013]
Ans. Space waves are used for the line of sight (LOS)
From the figure, we have communication. ½
(R + h)2 = R2 + d2 The range of their frequencies is 40 MHz and
above. ½
Or 2Rh @ d2 (as h2 << 2Rh) ½
We have, height of transmitting antenna, hT = 20 m
\ d= 2Rh
and height of receiving antenna, hR = 45 m.
For a transmitting antenna of height hT, and a
Then, maximum distance between the two antennas,
receiving antenna of height hR, the maximum
line of sight distance becomes dM = 2 hT R + 2 hR R

\ dM = 2 RhT + 2 RhR dM = 2 × 20 × 6.4 × 10 6

[Note : Give 1 mark if the student writes the 2 × 45 × 6.4 × 10 6
expression of dM] ½ = 20 × 8 × 100 + 8 × 100 × 30
[CBSE Marking Scheme, 2016] = 8 × 100 ( 20 + 30)
Q. 9. Give (brief) reasons for the following : = 40000 m = 40 km 2
(i) We use the ‘sky wave‘ mode of propagation, of
electromagnetic waves, only for frequencies up to
30 to 40 MHz.

Long Answer Type Questions (5 marks each)

Q. 1. (i) Which mode of wave propagation is suitable for Ans. (i) The skywave propagation is suitable for
television broadcast and satellite communication, television broadcast and satellite communication.
and why ? Draw a suitable diagram depicting this ½
mode of propagation of wave. The radio waves from the transmitting antenna can
U [O.D. Comptt. I, II, III 2012] reach the receiving antenna R from the different
(ii) Block diagram of a receiver is shown in the figure. layers of ionospheres as shown in figure. ½
Receiving Antenna
lorosphere
F-layer
4
Output 1 E-layer
Received Amplifier X Detector Y (Say F-layer)
Signal
2
3
(a) Identify ‘X’ and ‘Y’.
(b) Write their functions. [Delhi I, II, III 2013] AB
distance C
Earth 2
CommuniCation systems [ 399

(ii) (a) X : IF stage frequency by intermediate frequency (IF) stage

Y : Amplifier 1 preceding the detection.
(b) The carrier frequency is changed to a lower An amplifier increases the strength of the detected
signal. 1
Q. 2. (i) Given a block diagram of a generalized communication system.
Information Message Transmitted Message
X Y Reciever User
Source Signal Signal Signal

Identify the boxes ‘X’ and ‘Y’ and write their functions.
(ii) Mention three different modes of propagation used in communication system. Distinguish between “Point
to Point” and “Broadcast” modes of communication. U [Delhi I, II, III 2015]
Ans. (i) X : Transmitter
Y : Channel 1
Their functions :
Transmitter : To convert the message signal into suitable form for transmission through channel. 1
Channel : It sends the signal to the receiver. 1
(ii) (a) Ground wave or surface wave propagation.
(b) Sky wave propagation or ionospheric propagation.
(c) Space wave propagation / Line of sight propagation 1
In point to point mode, communication takes place between a single transmitter and receiver. In broadcast
mode, large number of receivers are connected to a single transmitter. 1

TopiC-2
Modulation

Revision Notes
Low frequency signal could not travel large distance because of following reasons :
¾ Low frequency means low power, hence it gets attenuated i.e., loss of signal strength.
λ
¾ Minimum size of antenna = and low frequency means large wavelength so size of antenna becomes impractical.
4
¾ Overlapping of signals Difficult to incorporate multiple transmitting stations.
¾ Hence the signal should be transmitted at high frequency.
¾ Combining low frequency message signal with high frequency carrier wave is modulation.
¾ A high frequency wave has certain features like amplitude, frequency and phase.
y = acos (wt + f)
So, variable parameters are amplitude (a), frequency (n) and phase (f).
¾ Depending upon the parameter which we are varying in carrier wave with our signal, there are three main types
of modulation techniques.
• Amplitude modulation
• Frequency modulation
• Phase modulation
¾ Amplitude Modulation : The amplitude of the carrier wave changes according to the intensity of the signal. The
amplitude variation of the carrier wave is at the signal frequency fs.

Carrier Signal

Modulating Sine Wave Signal

Amplitute Modulated Signal

400 ] Oswaal CBSE Chapterwise & Topicwise Question Bank, PHYSICS, Class – XII

If message signal m(t) = Am sin wmt

carrier wave c(t) = Ac sin wct
are combined together then bandwidth of modulated wave is (wc – wm) to (wc + wm)
¾ (wc – wm) and (wc + wm) are known as lower and upper sideband frequency respectively. Signal is in these side
band frequencies.
Ac
Amplitude µAc
2

(c – m) c (c + m)  in radians

Modulation Index : The ratio of change of amplitude of modulated wave to the amplitude of normal carrier wave
is called modulation index (µ).
Am
µ= To prevent distortion µ ≤ 1.
Ac

Amax − Amin A + Amin

We can derive that Am = and Ac = max
2 2
Amax − Amin
Hence, µ=
Amax + Amin
¾ Effect of Noise on AM wave : AM signal is more noisy than FM because in AM message is transmitted through
modulating the amplitude of carrier signal. A low frequency noise can alter the amplitude of carrier message. In
frequency modulation message is transmitted through frequency changes and hence amplitude of noise signal
will not effected.
Detection of amplitude modulated wave :
¾ Demodulation : Demodulation is the process of recovering the signal frequency from a modulated carrier wave.
¾ The detected signal may not be strong enough to be made use of and hence is required to be amplified.
¾ Below is the block diagram of typical receiver circuit.
Receiving
Antenna

Output
Amplifier IF Stage Detector Amplifier
Received signal
Block diagram of a receiver
¾ Other communicating modes
Internet
Facsimile (FAX)

Very Short Answer Type Questions (1 mark each)

Q. 1. A signal of 5 kHz frequency is amplitude Ans. In amplitude modulation, the amplitude of the
modulated on a carrier wave of frequency carrier wave, changes in accordance with the
2 MHz. What are the frequencies of the side bands modulating signal, while in frequency modulation,
produced ? U [2016- OD, North] frequency of the carrier wave varies in accordance
with the modulating signal. 1
Ans. (i) uside bands = uc ± um ½ Q. 3. How are side bands produced ?
= 2005 kHz; 1995 kHz ½ U [Delhi I, II, III 2015]
(Give full 1 mark if the student straight away Ans. Side bands are produced due to the superposition
writes the answer as 2005 kHz and 1995 kHz) of carrier waves of frequency ωc over modulating
[CBSE Marking Scheme, 2016] /audio signal of frequency ωm. 1
Q. 2. Distinguish between amplitude modulation and [CBSE Marking Scheme, 2015]
frequency modulation. U [O.D. I, II, III 2015]
CommuniCation systems [ 401

OR

Ans.

[Topper’s Answer, 2015]

Ans. Cm(t) is the frequency modulated wave. 1
[CBSE Marking Scheme, 2014]
Q. 6. The carrier wave is given by
C(t) = 2sin (8pt) volt.
The modulating signal is a square wave as shown.
Find modulation index.
75 12 - Vm
=
100 12 + Vm 1

m(t) in volt
1 2
t in second

12
Vm = [Delhi I, II, III 2014]
7
a2
Ans. Modulation Index = = 1/2 = 0.5 ½+½
1 a1
Q. 5. In the given diagram C(t) stands for the carrier
wave and m(t) for the signal to be transmitted. [CBSE Marking Scheme, 2014]
What name do we give to the wave labelled as Detailed Answer :
Cm(t) in the diagram ?
1
From the given equation of carrier wave amplitude
of carrier wave, Ac = 2 volts
c(t) 0
–1 From the graph amplitude of signal wave,
0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3
Am = 1 volts
1
m(t) 0
Hence modulation index,
Am 1
–1 µ= = = 0.5
0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 Ac 2
1
cm(t)
–1
0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3
[CBSE SQP 2014]
402 ] Oswaal CBSE Chapterwise & Topicwise Question Bank, PHYSICS, Class – XII

Short Answer Type Questions-I (2 marks each)

Q. 1. Define modulation index. Why it is kept low ?

What is the role of a bandpass filter ? Ans. The process of (appropriate) superimposition
of low frequency message signal, over a high
R [2016- OD centre]
frequency carrier wave, is called modulation. 2
Ans. The modulation index is ratio of modulating signal
[Note : For block diagram see Topic-2]
voltage(Vm) to the carrier voltage (Vc).
[CBSE Marking Scheme, 2014]
V
µ = Q. 5. In the block diagram of a simple modulator for
V
obtaining an AM signal, shown in the figure,
1 identify the boxes A and B. Write their functions.
A bandpass filter allows the desirable band of x(t) y(t) AM
+ A B
frequencies to pass and block the unwanted higher modulating wave
and lower frequencies. 1 signal
Q. 2. Explain the terms (i) Attenuation and (ii) carrier
Demodulation used in communication system. wave
R [Delhi I, II, III 2016] U
Ans. (i) The loss of strength of a signal while
propagating through a medium. 1 1
(ii) The process of retrieval of information, from the
modulated wave, at the receiver. 1
[CBSE Marking Scheme, 2016]
Q. 3. (i) Give three reasons why modulation of a message
signal is necessary for long distance transmission.
(ii) Show graphically an audio signal, a carrier wave ½
and an amplitude modulated wave. Q. 6. A message signal of frequency 10 kHz and peak
R voltage 10 V is used to modulate a carrier wave
of frequency 1 MHz and peak voltage 20 V.
Determine : A [Delhi Comptt. I, II, III 2013]
(i) The modulation index,
(ii) the side bands produced.
Amax − Amin
Ans. (i) Modulation index, m =
Amax + Amin
1 Am
or m=
Ac
Given, Amax – Vmin = 10 V
Amax + Amin = 20 V
20 − 10 1
Hence m= = 1
20 + 10 3
(ii) sidebands = fc – fm and fc + fm
Given fm = 10 kHz
fc = 1 MHz
hence sidebands
f c + fm
= 1000 kHz + 10 kHz
= 1010 kHz
fc – fm = 1000 kHz – 10 kHz
=990 kHz 1
Q. 7. A carrier wave of frequency 1.5 MHz and
amplitude 50 V is modulated by a sinusoidal wave
of frequency 10 kHz producing 50% modulation.
2 Calculate the amplitude of AM wave and
Q. 4. Define the term modulation. Draw a block diagram frequencies of the side bands produced.
of a simple modulator for obtaining AM signal. A [Delhi Comptt. I, II, III 2013]
R [Foreign 2014] Ans. Given, fm = 10 kHz
CommuniCation systems [ 403

fc = 1.5 MHz Ans. Formula for modulation index 1

Vc = 50 V Finding the peak value of the modulating
m = 0.5 signal 1
V − Vm Am
(i) modulation index, m = c We have, m= 1
Vc + Vm Ac

50 − Vm Here, m = 60% = 3 ½
0.5 = 5
50 + Vm
\ Am = mAc = 3 × 15 V = 9 V ½
25 + 0.5 Vm = 50 – Vm 5
1.5 Vm = 25
[CBSE Marking Scheme, 2018]
or Vm = 16.66 V 1
Sidebands = fc – fm and fc + fm Detailed Answer :
Given fm = 10 kHz The modulation index m is given by
fc = 1.5 MHz A
µ= m ,
Hence sidebands AC
f c + fm = 1500 kHz + 10 kHz
= 1510 kHz where Am ® Peak voltage of modulating signal.
fc – fm = 1500 kHz – 10 kHz AC ® Peak voltage of carrier wave.
= 1490 kHz 1 A m = µ A×C
Q. 8. A carrier wave of peak voltage 15 V is used to
60
transmit a message signal. Find the peak voltage = ×15 =9 V ⇒
Am 9=V
of the modulating signal in order to have a 100
modulation index of 60%.
[CBSE Delhi &All India-2018]

Short Answer Type Questions-II (3 marks each)

Q. 1. Define the term ‘amplitude modulation’. Explain (i) Size of Antenna : For transmitting a signal,
any two factors which justify the need for λ
modulating a low frequency base band signal. minimum height of antenna should be
R

1

1
Direct transmission, of the low frequency base
band information signal, is not possible due to the
following reasons : (Any two)
[CBSE Marking Scheme, 2017]
Q. 2. (i) How is amplitude modulation achieved ?
(ii) The frequencies of two side bands in an AM wave are 640 kHz and 660 kHz respectively. Find the frequencies of
carrier and modulating signal. What is the bandwidth required for amplitude modulation ? R [2017, OD set-1]
Ans. (i) Amplitude modulation can be achieved by applying the message signal, and the carrier wave, to a non linear
(square law device) followed by a band pass filter.
(Alternatively, The student may just draw the block diagram.)
m (t) x (t) Square Law y (t) Band pass AM wave
Am sin mt Filter
Device
Centred at c
(Modulating signal)

c (t) Bx (t) + Cx (t)2

Ac sin ct
(Alternatively, Amplitude modulation is achieved by superposing a message signal on a carrier wave in a way
that causes the amplitude of the carrier wave to change in accordance with the message signal.) 1
404 ] Oswaal CBSE Chapterwise & Topicwise Question Bank, PHYSICS, Class – XII

(ii) Frequencies of side bands are :

(nc + nm) and (nc – nm) ½
\ nc + nm = 660 kHz
and n c – nm = 640 kHz
\ nc = 650 kHz ½
\ nm = 10 kHz ½
Bandwidth = (660 – 640) kHz
= 20 kHz ½
[CBSE Marking Scheme, 2017]
Q. 3. (i) Define the term ‘modulation index,’ used in Q. 4. (i) Explain any two factors which justify the need
communication system. Why is its value kept less of modulating a low frequency signal.
than or equal to one ?
(ii) Write two advantages of frequency modulation
(ii) A message signal of frequency 10 kHz and over amplitude modulation.
peak voltage of 10 V is used to modulate a
carrier frequency 1 MHz and peak voltage 10 V. R [2016- Delhi Set-I, II, III]
Determine the (i) modulation index, and (ii) side Ans. (i) A low frequency signal is modulated for the
bands produced. R [Foreign Set-I, 2017] following purposes :
Ans. (i) Modulation index is the ratio of Amplitude (a) It reduces the wavelength of transmitted signal,
modulated wave to the amplitude of carrier and the minimum height of antenna for effective
wave. communication is l/4. Therefore height of antenna
Am becomes practically achievable.
m= 1
Ac (b) Power radiated into the space by an antenna is
m ≤ 1 to avoid distortion of signal. ½ inversely proportional to l2. Therefore, the power
radiated into the space increases and signal can
10 V travel larger distance. 1+1
(ii) m= =1 ½
10 V
(ii) (a) High efficiency (b) Less noise (c) Maximum use
nc – nm = (1000 – 10) kHz
of transmitted power 1
= 990 kHz ½
nc + nm = (1000 + 10) kHz
= 1010 kHz ½
[CBSE Marking Scheme, 2017]
Q. 5. (i) Write the factors that prevent a baseband signal of low frequency to be transmitted over long distances.
(ii) What is to be done to overcome these factors ? Draw a block diagram to obtain the desired signal.
R [CBSE SQP 2016 ]
Ans. The factors that prevent a baseband signal of low frequency to be transmitted over long distances are :
(i) Size of the antenna
Effective power radiated by the antenna
Mixing up of signals from different transmitters 1
(ii) Modulation of the baseband signal of low frequency overcomes above problems and transmit them over long
distances. 1
Block diagram of amplitude modulation
m (t) x (t) Square Law y (t) Band pass AM wave
Am sin mt Filter
Device
Centred at c
(Modulating signal)

c (t) Bx (t) + Cx (t)2

Ac sin ct 1
Q. 6. Write two basic modes of communication. Explain In amplitude modulation, the amplitude of a
the process of amplitude modulation. Draw carrier wave is made to vary, with time, in the
a schematic sketch showing how amplitude same way as the modulating signal varies with
modulated signal is obtained by superposing a time. 1
modulating signal over a sinusoidal carrier wave. 2
U [O.D. 2014]
cm (t) for AM 0
–2
Ans. Two basic modes of communication are :
0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3
(i) Point – to – point ½
(ii) Broadcast ½ [CBSE Marking Scheme, 2014] 1
CommuniCation systems [ 405

Q. 7. Write three important factors which justify the need of modulating a message signal. Show diagrammatically
how an amplitude modulated wave is obtained when a modulating signal is superimposed on a carrier wave.
U [Delhi I, II, IIsI 2013, Delhi I, II, III 2012]
Ans. (i) Practical Size of the antenna or aerial ½
(ii) Effective power radiated by an antenna ½
(iii) Mixing up of signals from different transmitters ½
1
c(t) 0 ½
–1
0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3
1
m(t) 0 ½
–1
0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3
1
0 ½
cm (t)for AM
–1
0 0.5 1 1.5 22.5 3
[CBSE Marking Scheme, 2013, 12, 10]
Q. 8. Draw a block diagram of a detector for AM signal and show, using necessary processes and the waveforms, how the
original message signal is detected from the input AM wave. U [Delhi I, II, III 2015]

Ans. AM wave Envelope m(t)

Rectifier Output 1
Detector
(a) (b)  (c) 

Time Time Time

AM input Rectified Output

wave wave (without RF component)
[Note : Award these 3 marks irrespective of the way the student attempts the question.] 1+1
[CBSE Marking Scheme, 2015]

Commonly Made Error

 Many students couldn’t draw the output of ‘envelope detector’.
OR

[Topper’s Answer, 2015]

406 ] Oswaal CBSE Chapterwise & Topicwise Question Bank, PHYSICS, Class – XII

µAc
\ Cm(t) = Acsin ωct +
2sin ωmt. sin ωct ½
2
µAc
= Acsin ωct + [cos(ωc – ωm)t
2
– cos (ωc + ωm)t] ½
There are the three sinusoidal waves present in the
amplitude modulated signal.
U [CBSE SQP 2014] The frequencies of these three waves are
ω 
Ans. The equation of the (amplitude) modulated signal f1 = c 
2π
is 
ω - ωm 
Cm(t) = [(Ac + Amsin ωmt)] sin ωct 1 f2 = c 
2π 
This can be rewritten as
ω + ωm 
Cm(t) = [Ac (1 + µsin ωmt)] sin ωct and f3 = c ½
2 π 
where, µ = Am/Ac = modulation index ½
[CBSE Marking Scheme, 2014] ½
Q. 10. A sinusoidal carrier wave of amplitude Ac and angular frequency wc is modulated in accordance with a
sinusoidal information signal of amplitude Am and angular frequency wm. Show that the amplitude modulated
signal contains three frequencies centered around wc. Draw the frequency spectrum of the resulting modulated
signal. [CBSE -SQP-2018]
Ans. The modulated signal :
Cm(t) = (Ac + Am sin wmt) sinwct ½
 Am 
= Ac 1 + A sin ωmt  sin ω ct ½
 c 
Cm(t) = Ac sin wct + mAc sin wmt sin wct ½
µA c µA c
Cm(t) = Ac sin wct + cos( ωc − ωm )t – cos( ωc − ωm )t ½
2 2
Frequency Spectrum :
Ac
Amplitude A
c
2

(c – m) c (c + m)  (in radians)

[CBSE Marking Scheme, 2018]
Q. 11. What does the term ‘Modulation‘, used in Modulated wave 1 : Frequency Modulation ½
communication system, mean ?
Modulated wave 2 : Amplitude Modulation ½
Identify the two types of modulation shown here.
Give two advantages of any one of these over the Two advantages of FM over AM :
other. R (i) Lower noise, better power efficiency. ½
1
Carrier 0 (ii) Higher operating range ½
wave –1
0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 (iii) Higher fidelity reception.
1
Modulating 0 [Alternatively, Two advantages of AM over FM
signal –1
0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 (i) Simple circuits are required. ½
1
(Modulated 0
wave 1)
(ii) Lower frequency space for transmission. ½
–1
0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3
2 Commonly Made Error
(Modulated 0
wave 2) –2  Few students couldn’t identify the “Frequency
0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 Modulation.”
Ans. Modulation is a process in which one of the  Many students couldn’t write the advantages of FM
characteristics (amplitude, frequency, phase) of a over AM.
high frequency carrier wave is made to change in
accordance with a low frequency message signal.
1
CommuniCation systems [ 407

Long Answer Type Questions (5 marks each)

Q. 1. (i) Distinguish between sinusoidal and pulse- eecc

shaped signals.
(ii) Explain, showing graphically, how a sinusoidal
tt
carrier wave is superimposed on a modulating signal
to obtain the resultant amplitude modulated (AM)
wave. (a)Carrier
(a) Carrierwave
wave
U [O.D. Comptt. I, II, III 2012; O.D. I, II, III 2014]
eemm
Ans. (i)
Sinusoidal signal Pulse signal
(analog signal) tt
(Digital signal)
(a) It is a continuous (a) These signals are those (b)Modulating
ModulatingSignal
Signal
(b)
signal value, which at which can only take discrete
any instant lies within the stepwise values such a (E +E sin ω t ) topenvelope
(E cc+E mmsin ωmmt) top envelope
range, of a maximum and signal is usually in form of EEmm
minimum value. pulses. EEcc
AA EEmm EEmax
max
(b) Sine wave is a (b) Each pulse have two EEmin
min
fundamental analog levels of current of voltage
signal represented by 0 and 1.
(c) It is represented as (c) It is represented graphi-
Time cally as –(EEcc+E
–( sinωωmmt)t)bottom
+Emmsin bottomenvelope
envelope
period Pulse
(c)Amplitude
(c) Amplitudemodulated
modulatedwavewave
duration
Pulse 1
E or I E0 Amptitude
O E or I
Pulse Pulse Time
Q. 2. (a) Describe briefly three factors which justify the
rise fall
Time need for modulation of audio frequency signals
over long distances in communication. (b) Draw
2
the waveforms of (i) carrier wave, (ii) a modulating
(ii) Amplitude Modulation : When a wave is
signal and (iii) amplitude modulated wave.
superimposed on a high frequency carrier wave in
a manner that the frequency of modulated wave is [CBSE Comptt- 2018]
same as that of the carrier wave, but its amplitude is Ans. (a) Describing the three factor 3
made proportional to the instantaneous amplitude (b) Drawing the wave forms 2
of the audio frequency modulating voltage, the
(a) It is necessary to modulate the audio frequency
process is called amplitude modulation (AM).
signals because of the following three reasons :
Let the instantaneous carrier voltage (ec) and
(i) Size of the antenna or aerial ½
modulating voltage (em) be represented by
This size needs to be comparable to the wavelength
ec = Ec sin wct ...(i)
of the signal. it would be unmanageably large for
em = Em sin wmt ...(ii) 1 audio frequency signals. ½
Thus, in amplitude modulation, amplitude A (ii) Effective power readiated ½
of modulated wave is made proportional to the
instantaneous modulating voltage em  l 2
Power radiated, being proportional to  
i.e., A = Ec + kem ...(iii) λ
where, k is a constant of proportionality.
In amplitude modulation, the proportionality constant ½
k is made equal to unity. Therefore, maximum positive (iii) Mixing up of different signals ½
amplitude of AM wave is given by

A = Ec + em = Ec + Em sin wm t
...(iv)
It is called top envelope. ½
The maximum negative amplitude of AM wave is (b) The required wave forms are as shown
given by (i) Carrier wave
– A = – Ec – em
(ii) Modulating Signal
= – (Ec + Em sin wmt) ...(v)
(iii) Amplitude Modulated wave
This is called bottom envelope. 1
408 ] Oswaal CBSE Chapterwise & Topicwise Question Bank, PHYSICS, Class – XII

1 (iii) Mixing of signals : When number of signals are

c(t) 0 transmitted simultaneously, all these signals will
–1
0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 get mixed up and at the end we get mixed signal,
1
which is very difficult to separate. Therefore to
m(t) 0
–1 remove this limitation, transmission is done at
0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 high frequency and a band of frequency is allotted
1
0 to each user at the end, as done for radio and TV
Vm (t)for AM
–1 channels.
0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3
Q. 3. (a) Give three reasons why modulation of a
[CBSE Marking Scheme, 2018] message signal is necessary for long distance
transmission. (b) Show graphically an audio
Detailed Answer :
signal, a carrier wave and an amplitude modulated
(a) For a long distance Transmission of message signal wave. [CBSE SQP-2018]
we need modulation because of following reasons. Ans.

(i) Low energy: The message signals when converted ec

to e.m. waves, do not have the sufficient energy O t

to travel up to long distance ,because of their
low frequency. Hence these message signals are
(a) Carrier wave
modulated with high frequency carrier signals
before being send because carrier signals have high em
energy for long distance transmission. O
t
(ii) Size of Antenna: For the effective Transmission by
an antenna ,the size of antenna should be at least
(b) Modulating Signal
λ
of the size , where l is the wavelength of signal – (E
(Ecc+E sin m
4 +Emm sin t) top envelope
mt) top envelope
Em
E
to be send. Thus for an em wave of audio signal of Ecc
E m
A
A Em
E m E Emax
max
frequency is 20 kHz, we need an antenna of size
Emin
E min
nearly 3.75 km, which is practically impossible. O
O
Hence, these low frequency signals first modulated
to high frequency signals before transmission to get
the proper size of antenna. –– (E
(Ecc+E
+Em sin m
m sin t) Bottom
mt) envelope
Bottom envelope
(c) Amplitude modulated
(c) Amplitude modulated wavewave

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