I suggest the following tests to be done by someone else than me...any of which
could give us some anecdotal evidence about trees and RF, at least.
Wind a several-turn solenoidal coil with a diameter large enough for a section
of tree to be inserted. Measure the inductance and the Q with and without the
branch inserted. Significant changes in the L or Q (at RF) would indicate
interaction between tree and field.
Make a vertical dipole and suspend the top from a pulley that can move along a
non-conductive catenary (i.e. - a rope) between two trees at least one-half
wavelength apart. Measure the resonant frequency and SWR bandwidth of the
dipole when suspended in the middle of the catenary. Move the dipole closer to
the tree in steps of about 0.1 wavelength, repeating the resonant frequency and
SWR bandwidth measurements at each step. Significant shifts in either resonant
frequency or increases in the SWR bandwidth indicate interaction between tree
and field.
Have at it - that would make a nice QST or QEX article!
73, Ward N0AX
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160 meters is a serious band, it should be treated with respect. - TF4M
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