What is the practice of using the same frequency bands in different geographical areas to enhance capacity in cellular networks called?

The practice of using the same frequency bands in different geographical areas to enhance capacity in cellular networks is known as frequency reuse. This concept is fundamental to the design of cellular systems and is used to maximize the effective use of the available radio spectrum.

Frequency reuse allows multiple cells in a cellular network to use the same radio frequency without interference, provided that there is sufficient geographic separation between them. Each cell in a network can operate on the same frequency as other cells, which dramatically increases the capacity of the network. When a signal is transmitted, the power is limited to the vicinity of the cell, and thus neighboring cells can use the same frequencies without causing interference, assuming there is adequate separation.

This technique is critical in accommodating a large number of mobile users while maintaining service quality, especially in densely populated areas. By effectively planning the layout of these cells and carefully managing the frequencies used, network designers can ensure efficient communication across a wide area, making optimal use of available resources.

The other options, while related to frequency and radio signals, do not accurately describe this specific practice of leveraging geographic separation to reuse frequencies within cellular networks.