What does the transmitter in a radar system do?

The transmitter in a radar system plays a pivotal role by generating powerful pulses of electromagnetic energy. This energy is then emitted into the surrounding environment to interact with objects such as aircraft, vehicles, or terrain features. When these pulses hit a target, they reflect back towards the radar system. The radar then processes these reflections to gain information regarding the target, including its distance, speed, and size.

This function is critical for the effectiveness of radar operations because without the ability to generate and send out electromagnetic pulses, the radar system would not be able to detect or track any objects. The reflections of these pulses are what enable the radar system to create a visual representation of the surrounding area and monitor movement, leading to better situational awareness, especially in air traffic control and various military applications.