🔍 Key Concepts

• VHF marine band frequency range (around 156–162 MHz) and how frequency relates to wavelength • Basic antenna theory, especially a quarter‑wavelength (λ/4) whip antenna • Unit conversions between meters and inches when working with wavelength

💭 Think About

• First, recall or look up the approximate frequency of marine VHF channels (for example, Channel 16). From that frequency, what is the approximate wavelength using λ = c / f? • For a simple vertical whip used as a temporary antenna, what common fraction of a wavelength is usually used (e.g., 1/2 wave, 1/4 wave)? Which of those is most common for basic VHF whips? • Once you have your fraction of a wavelength in meters, convert that length to inches. Which of the choices is closest to that result?

✅ Before You Answer

• Verify the approximate wavelength of a 156 MHz signal using λ = c / f, with c ≈ 300,000,000 m/s • Confirm that common VHF marine antennas are often designed as a quarter‑wave (λ/4) radiator for a single element whip • Double‑check your meters-to-inches conversion (1 meter ≈ 39.37 inches) before deciding which option is the best approximation