*Question T9A10:
In which direction does a half-wave dipole antenna radiate the strongest signal?*  

*Correct Answer is  D: Broadside to the antenna*  

### AI Response: (may contain errors)  

A half-wave dipole antenna is a common type of antenna used in amateur radio, and understanding its radiation pattern is crucial for effective communication.

### Correct Answer: D - Broadside to the antenna

- **Explanation**: A half-wave dipole antenna radiates strongest signals in a direction that is perpendicular (broadside) to the length of the antenna. This means that if you visualize the antenna lying horizontally, the strongest radiation occurs in the vertical plane that is perpendicular to the antenna's length.

### Why the Other Choices are Incorrect:

- **A: Equally in all directions**  
  - This choice describes an isotropic radiator, which is a theoretical antenna that radiates equally in all directions. A half-wave dipole does not radiate equally; it has a directional pattern.

- **B: Off the ends of the antenna**  
  - While some radiation does occur off the ends of the dipole, it is not the strongest. The radiation is weakest at the ends and strongest broadside.

- **C: In the direction of the feed line**  
  - The feed line is where the antenna is connected to the transmitter. The strongest radiation does not occur in the direction of the feed line; instead, it radiates broadside to the antenna.

### Useful Rules of Thumb:

- The radiation pattern of a half-wave dipole can be visualized as a figure-eight shape in the horizontal plane, with the strongest signals radiating outwards from the sides (broadside) and minimal radiation at the ends.
- The gain of a half-wave dipole is approximately 2.15 dBi (decibels over an isotropic radiator), which indicates its efficiency in radiating power in the broadside direction.

Understanding these concepts will help you effectively utilize a half-wave dipole antenna in your amateur radio operations.