Medelvågigt

Medelvågigt is a term used to describe a specific type of radio wave propagation. It refers to waves that travel by a combination of ground wave and skywave. These waves are reflected by the ionosphere, allowing them to travel beyond the horizon. The term "medelvågigt" is of Swedish origin, meaning "medium wave."

Medium wave propagation is most effective during the night, as the ionosphere is more conductive then. During the day, the lower layers of the ionosphere absorb medium waves, limiting their range. This is why AM radio stations, which operate in the medium wave band, typically have a greater broadcast range after sunset.

The frequency range for medium wave broadcasting is generally considered to be between 530 kHz and 1710 kHz. This band is used for amplitude modulation (AM) radio. The characteristics of medium wave propagation mean that reception can vary significantly depending on the time of day, season, and geographic location. While ground wave propagation provides consistent, albeit limited, range during the day, skywave propagation becomes dominant at night, enabling long-distance reception. Interference can be a factor, especially in congested areas or during periods of high solar activity. The effectiveness of medelvågigt propagation is a key reason for the widespread use of AM radio for news, talk, and music broadcasting across many parts of the world.