What factors affect the range of a wireless communication system?

The range of a wireless communication system is primarily influenced by factors that directly impact the transmission and reception of signals. Transmitter power is crucial, as higher power levels can increase the distance a signal can travel. Frequency plays a significant role because lower frequencies tend to penetrate obstacles better and travel farther, while higher frequencies may offer greater bandwidth but are more susceptible to attenuation by barriers. Antenna gain enhances the effective radiated power of the signal in specific directions, further extending the communication range. Environmental obstacles, such as buildings, trees, and other physical structures, can significantly degrade the signal quality and reduce the effective range.

These elements are fundamental to the analysis and design of wireless systems, making them directly relevant to how far communication can be reliably achieved. Other choices may include factors that seem related to communication but do not have the same direct impact on range.