When you are close to the transmitter, what is true about signal strength?

• A. The direct signal is much stronger than the signal from the utility.
• B. The mounted buoy radiates stronger.
• C. The direct signal is weaker than the utility signal.
• D. The signal strength is identical.

Answer: (A)

When you’re near the transmitter, the energy coming directly from the transmitter is the strongest signal you’ll receive. The direct path hasn’t yet spread out or weakened, so it dominates over any signals coming from the utility or other sources. That’s why the direct signal is much stronger than the signals from the utility. The other ideas don’t fit: there isn’t a buoy involved, the direct signal isn’t weaker at close range, and the strengths aren’t identical.