What is the difference between FM and AM?

Answer by  LeheckaG (1826)

AM (520 to 1610/1710 KHz) is "Amplitude-Modulation", and FM (87.5 to 108 MHz) is "Frequency-Modulation". We can generally hear frequencies from 20 to 20,000 Hz. Both AM & FM utilize a carrier-wave (think of it as a high-pitched whistle). AM transmits information by modulating the carrier-wave's-amplitude/volume, whereas FM transmits information by modulating the carrier-wave's-frequency/tone. FM is less-prone to common-interference.

Answer by  flexwheel (171)

Frequency modulation vs. amplitude modulation: Different technologies to broadcast radio waves. They operate on different frequency spectrums, which is why your radio needs a switch.

Answer by  KWDave (137)

FM stands for Frequency Modulation. AM stands for Amplitude Modulation. FM is used to beam a very wide band of radio waves in high quality over a short distance, usually less than 50 miles. AM is used to beam a very focused band of radio waves over long distances.

Answer by  taalian (11)

AM and FM radio waves work on different wavelengths.FM radio waves are on a higher frequency than AM. AM radio waves work on the earth and FM radio waves don't.The FM waves go in a straight line and the AM waves bend around the earth because they are ground waves!

Answer by  Ssally (191)

FM stands for Frequency modulation, AM Amplitude Modulation. Frequency is how close together the waves are (sound is a wave), and amplitude is how high they are. Different FM stations use different frequencies. Different AM stations use the same frequency, but different amplitudes.

Answer by  Bo99 (392)

The FM means modulated frequencies, which provide the possibility to diffuse in sterio. Also a FM station use higher frequencies than an AM one, that is why you can reach a lot more people with it.

Answer by  Rajesh (329)

AM (amplitude modulation) carriers alter in amplitude to mimic the audio being sent. FM (frequency modulation) carriers alter in frequency to mimic the audio being sent.

Answer by  mcr666 (362)

They are different frequencies on the radio dial. FM usually picks up music channels, and AM usually picks up talk stations.

Answer by  chen2 (508)

FM stands for frequency modulation has shorter wave lengths and they have better reception and better sound quality. Typically used for music. AM stands for Amplitude modulation, has longer wave lengths, but lower quality and bad receptions. But they are able to travel longer and further. Typically used for news