Funkstrahlung

Funkstrahlung is the term used in German-speaking contexts for electromagnetic radiation in the radio frequency portion of the spectrum. It covers a broad range from a few kilohertz up to tens of gigahertz, with practical usage divided into bands such as HF, VHF, UHF and microwave. Like all electromagnetic radiation, Funkstrahlung consists of oscillating electric and magnetic fields that propagate at the speed of light. It is non-ionizing, meaning its photons have relatively low energy compared with visible or higher-energy radiation.

Generation and sources: In technology, Funkstrahlung is mainly produced by accelerating electric charges, for example the alternating currents in transmitters and antennas. An antenna radiates radio waves by converting electrical energy into electromagnetic energy, while receiving antennas perform the reverse. Natural sources include astrophysical processes such as synchrotron radiation, as well as thermal radio emission from ionized gas in space. Radio waves can also arise from planetary, solar and atmospheric phenomena.

Uses and applications: Funkstrahlung enables wireless communication and sensing, including broadcasting, mobile networks, Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth, radar and satellite systems. It is also essential in radio astronomy for studying celestial objects and phenomena.

Safety, regulation and interference: Although radio radiation is non-ionizing, high-intensity exposure can cause heating effects. Regulatory bodies set exposure limits and govern spectral usage, allocation of frequency bands, and emission masks to minimize interference and protect users and equipment. Measurements of radio emissions often involve parameters such as frequency, wavelength, power density and transmitter effective radiated power.