What determines whether the target speed is added or subtracted from patrol speed in same direction RADAR?

Prepare for the North Carolina Radar Operator Recertification Exam. Leverage flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each offering hints and detailed explanations. Boost your confidence and get exam-ready!

The correct answer relates to how the relative motion between vehicles directly impacts the calculation of target speed in the context of radar speed enforcement. When radar is used to measure the speed of a target vehicle traveling in the same direction as the patrol vehicle, the radar system assesses the velocity of both vehicles relative to each other.

If the target is moving in the same direction as the patrol vehicle, the target's speed will be subtracted from the patrol vehicle's speed to determine the target's actual speed. This is because the radar detects the Doppler shift created by the movement of both vehicles in the same direction. Therefore, understanding the relative speed - or how fast the target is going compared to the patrol vehicle - is crucial in assessing the accurate speed of the target vehicle.

Consequently, the relative motion between the vehicles is a key factor in achieving an accurate reading from the radar system, clarifying why this option is the correct choice. Other potential factors, such as target direction or vehicle color, do not influence the mathematical calculation used to determine speed in these scenarios.

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