What determines the maximum range in radar systems?

The maximum range of radar systems is primarily determined by a combination of peak power and sensitivity. Peak power refers to the strength of the signal transmitted by the radar system, which directly affects how far the signal can travel before it diminishes below the level that can be detected. Higher peak power allows the radar to reach longer distances as the energy travels further into the environment.

Sensitivity, on the other hand, relates to the radar's ability to detect weak returned signals that have bounced off objects. A more sensitive receiver can pick up faint echoes that are produced by distant objects, effectively increasing the range at which the radar can operate successfully.

Together, peak power and sensitivity create a balance where a radar system can transmit a strong signal while also being adept at detecting those signals even as they weaken over distance. Thus, this combination is foundational in determining how far a radar system can effectively detect objects.

Other factors, like pulsed energy modulation, receiver bandwidth, and transmission frequency, play roles in radar operation and performance but do not directly define the maximum operational range in the same way. For instance, pulsed energy modulation relates to how the radar signal is structured for transmission and reception, and while it is important for signal clarity and timing, it does not inherently dictate