Which two factors determine the degree of bearing resolution for a radar system?

The degree of bearing resolution for a radar system is primarily influenced by radar beam width and the range of the targets.

Radar beam width, which is typically determined by the antenna design, indicates the angular extent of the radar signal. A narrower beam width allows the radar system to distinguish between two closely spaced targets, thereby improving the resolution. This is because a narrower beam focuses more energy in a specific direction, minimizing the likelihood of two targets being detected as one.

The range of the targets also plays a crucial role. As the range increases, the radar’s ability to resolve targets diminishes due to the increased dispersion of the radar wave over distance. Targets that are further away are spaced out wider in the radar’s field of view, which can blur the distinction between them unless the beam width is appropriately narrow.

Together, these two factors—beam width and target range—dictate how well a radar system can differentiate between objects located at various distances and positions, thereby ensuring effective tracking and identification of targets.