*Question E7B07:
Which of the following is the likely result of using a Class C amplifier to amplify a single-sideband phone signal?*  

*Correct Answer is  D: Signal distortion and excessive bandwidth*  

### AI Response: (may contain errors)  

A Class C amplifier is designed to be efficient for amplifying signals with constant amplitude, such as FM or CW signals. However, it is not suitable for amplifying amplitude-varying signals like single-sideband (SSB) phone signals. Here's why:

1. **Correct Answer: Signal distortion and excessive bandwidth**  
   - Class C amplifiers operate by conducting for less than 180 degrees of the input signal cycle. This means they are not linear and will distort amplitude-modulated signals like SSB.  
   - The distortion results in excessive bandwidth because the non-linear operation generates harmonics and spurious emissions, spreading the signal over a wider frequency range than intended.

2. **Why the other choices are incorrect:**
   - **A: Reduced intermodulation products**  
     - Class C amplifiers actually increase intermodulation products due to their non-linear operation. Intermodulation distortion is a result of non-linearities, which are prominent in Class C amplifiers.
   
   - **B: Increased overall intelligibility**  
     - The distortion introduced by a Class C amplifier decreases intelligibility, as the signal becomes corrupted and harder to understand.
   
   - **C: Reduced third-order intermodulation**  
     - Third-order intermodulation products are typically increased in non-linear amplifiers like Class C, not reduced. These products can interfere with the desired signal and other nearby frequencies.

In summary, Class C amplifiers are not suitable for SSB signals due to their non-linear operation, which leads to signal distortion and excessive bandwidth.