Radio Transmissions: Is It Possible in a 1x1x1m Cube?

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In summary, the conversation discusses whether two radios can communicate when placed in a sealed copper cube. The reasoning is that the 10 meter wavelength photon cannot fit in the 1x1x1 meter box, making communication impossible at the specified frequency. However, there are differing opinions on whether the two antennas can affect each other. The alternative question considers the scenario of a larger box with the receiver placed at the far end. It is noted that this problem should be analyzed using the classical model of electromagnetic radiation rather than considering photons.
  • #1
SlowThinker
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This should be a simple question but I'm really not sure what's the answer.
Let's make a thought experiment: I have a radio transmitter and a radio receiver, operating at wavelength 10 meters.
I put them in a sealed copper cube that is only 1x1x1 meter.
Will the two radios be able to communicate or not? What if the box was superconductive?

My reasoning is that
1. The two radios can only communicate via photons
2. A 10m photon cannot fit in the box
3. Thus communication is impossible (at the specified frequency)

Some of my friends say that the two antennas will affect each other, like a transformer, but we have not come to a definite conclusion.

Alternative question, what if the box was 1x1x100 meters, with the receiver placed at the far end?
 
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  • #2
Photons aren't what you think they are and radios don't "communicate via photons".
This problem is properly analyzed using the classical model of electromagnetic radiation.

Photons would only come into the picture if you were working with a situation in which quantum effects mattered.
 

Related to Radio Transmissions: Is It Possible in a 1x1x1m Cube?

1. Can radio transmissions be sent and received in a 1x1x1m cube?

Yes, it is possible to send and receive radio transmissions in a 1x1x1m cube. However, the effectiveness of the transmissions may be limited by the size and materials of the cube.

2. What factors can affect the ability to send and receive radio transmissions in a 1x1x1m cube?

The materials used to construct the cube can greatly affect the transmission of radio waves. Metals, for example, can block or reflect radio waves. Additionally, the placement of the antenna within the cube can also impact the effectiveness of the transmissions.

3. What types of radio waves can be transmitted and received in a 1x1x1m cube?

Most types of radio waves can be transmitted and received in a 1x1x1m cube, including AM, FM, and Bluetooth signals. However, the size of the cube may limit the range and strength of these transmissions.

4. How can the size of the cube affect the transmission of radio waves?

The size of the cube can affect the transmission of radio waves in several ways. A larger cube provides more space for the waves to travel, resulting in a longer range. Additionally, a larger cube may have less interference from surrounding objects, allowing for clearer transmissions. On the other hand, a smaller cube may have more blockage and interference, limiting the effectiveness of the transmissions.

5. Can a 1x1x1m cube be used for practical applications of radio transmissions?

While it is possible to use a 1x1x1m cube for radio transmissions, it may not be practical for all applications. The size and materials of the cube may limit the range and strength of transmissions, making it more suitable for short-range or low-power transmissions. Additionally, the small size of the cube may make it difficult to incorporate complex circuitry or components needed for certain applications.

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