IMPORTANCE OF RADIO AS A FORM OF COMMUNICATION

The invention of the radio was a significant development in the electronics industry.

In 1864, an English mathematical physicist, clerk Maxwell (1831-1879) suggested that there was the existence of waves.

In 1888, a German, Heinrich Rudolph Hertz, (1857-94) demonstrated the existence of electromagnetic waves (vibrations) that travel through space, which were named after him. These waves could be used in wireless communications.

In 1901, an Italian, Guglielmo Marconi (1874-1937) invented the radio and sent a radio transmission across the Atlantic from poldhu in Cornwall to Saint John, Newfoundland, Canada.

The radio gained prominence during World War I as it was used to communicate.

The Marconi Company made the first radio broadcast in Britain in 1920.

The British Broadcasting Company (BBC) was set up in London in 1922.

Kenya’s Radio Broadcasts before independence depended on the BBC. The VOK began to air programmes after independence.

In 1990, VOK changed its name o KBC

In 1995, the FM meter Band was launched thus leading to an increase in radio stations

Importance of radio as a form of communication

• Radio is easy to access since people can afford to buy the device.
• News and information from the radio is quickly received throughout the country
• It can also be accessed by illiterate people who can listen and understand the radio news if broadcast in the language they can understand.
• Radio is used to enhance communication in transport systems like motor vehicles, railways, ships and airplanes.
• Radios are sometimes used to broadcast educational programs and important government communications on issues like health, agriculture and family planning.
• The radio is a source of entertainment. E.g through Music and drama programmes.
• Radio can be used by manufacturers and companies to advertise their products thus stimulating business.

• Radio communication has enhanced space exploration. Radio signals are used to communicate with space vehicles.

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