What is a significant difference between a TV antenna and a CB antenna?

The correct choice highlights that TV antennas are typically designed for horizontal polarization, while CB (Citizens Band) antennas are often vertically polarized. This difference in polarization reflects the distinct nature of the signals they receive and transmit.

TV signals are primarily intended for reception from broadcast towers that emit horizontally polarized waves, which allows for better reception in residential areas where many buildings might obstruct signals. Conversely, CB antennas use vertical polarization to maximize their range and signal propagation characteristic over various terrain, making them more suitable for mobile use, such as in vehicles.

Understanding the polarization of antennas is crucial for ensuring optimal performance in receiving signals. In practical terms, using a horizontally polarized antenna for CB or a vertically polarized one for TV would lead to poorer reception due to mismatched polarization.

The characterization of the operating frequencies also distinguishes the two types of antennas, but that detail is less about polarization and more about how they are utilized in different applications.