Kennelly–Heaviside layer theory

E63328

Kennelly–Heaviside layer theory is an early 20th-century scientific model proposing the existence of a conductive layer in the upper atmosphere that reflects radio waves, helping to explain long-distance radio communication.

Aliases (3)
  • Heaviside layer ×1
  • Heaviside–Kennelly layer ×1
  • Kennelly–Heaviside layer ×1

Statements (39)
Predicate Object
instanceOf atmospheric physics model
radio propagation theory
scientific theory
addresses problem of radio signals traveling beyond line-of-sight
application planning of early transcontinental radio links
understanding day–night variation in radio reception
assumes presence of ionized gases at high altitude
radio waves can be reflected or refracted by ionized layers
category history of atmospheric science
history of radio
concerns electromagnetic wave propagation in the atmosphere
frequency-dependent behavior of radio waves
describes existence of a conductive layer in the upper atmosphere
reflection of radio waves by the upper atmosphere
explains long-distance radio communication beyond the horizon
skywave radio propagation
field ionospheric physics
radio physics
telecommunications
historicalContext developed soon after the advent of wireless radio
influenced design of long-range radio communication systems
development of wireless telegraphy
namedAfter Arthur Edwin Kennelly
Oliver Heaviside
precedes modern ionospheric theory
predicts radio waves can return to Earth after reaching upper atmosphere
proposedBy Arthur Edwin Kennelly
Oliver Heaviside
relatedConcept D layer of the ionosphere
E layer of the ionosphere
F layer of the ionosphere
groundwave
skywave
relatesTo Heaviside layer
ionosphere
medium-wave radio propagation
shortwave radio propagation
status superseded in detail by modern ionospheric models but historically important
timePeriod early 20th century

Referenced by (4)
Subject (surface form when different) Predicate
Arthur E. Kennelly ("Kennelly–Heaviside layer")
Arthur E. Kennelly ("Heaviside–Kennelly layer")
knownFor
Arthur E. Kennelly
notableWork
Kennelly–Heaviside layer theory ("Heaviside layer")
relatesTo

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