Which grounding system is designed to reduce ground absorption losses when an antenna is installed over poorly conducting ground?

• A. Ground screen
• B. Ground loop
• C. Ground rod
• D. Ground cable

Answer: (A)

A ground screen is designed specifically to minimize ground absorption losses encountered when an antenna is installed over poorly conducting ground. This system consists of a series of conductive materials, typically laid out in a horizontal plane beneath the antenna or over a larger area. The purpose of the ground screen is to effectively create a more conductive surface that can reflect radio waves back towards the antenna instead of allowing them to dissipate into the ground.

By enhancing the effective conductivity of the ground beneath the antenna, the ground screen helps to improve the performance of the antenna system, making it more efficient in transmitting and receiving signals. This is particularly important in situations where traditional grounding methods may be inadequate due to the inherent resistive properties of the soil, which can significantly impact signal quality and strength.

The other options do not serve the same purpose as a ground screen. A ground loop, while it may provide some level of grounding and increased conductivity, is mainly concerned with reducing noise and interference rather than improving the control of ground absorption losses. Ground rods and ground cables also serve grounding functions but may not effectively address the issues related to poor ground conductivity like a ground screen does.