What happens to the RADAR signal when it encounters a soft or absorptive object?

When a RADAR signal encounters a soft or absorptive object, it tends to be absorbed or scattered. Soft or absorptive materials do not reflect microwave energy effectively, which means that instead of bouncing back to the radar system, much of the signal is absorbed by the object. This absorption can result in a reduction of the amount of reflected signal reaching the radar operator, leading to a weaker return signal.

The scattering of the signal occurs when the waves interact with the imperfections and irregularities of the absorbing material. Rather than returning in a coherent manner as might be expected with a hard surface, the signal can be diffused in various directions, complicating the interpretation of the returned data.

This behavior highlights the limitations of RADAR systems in detecting or tracking objects that are not made of hard, reflective materials. Understanding how different materials interact with radar signals is crucial for accurate interpretation and effective use of radar technology in various applications, such as traffic enforcement or weather monitoring. The other provided options do not accurately describe the effects that occur with soft or absorptive materials, reinforcing the correctness of the choice made.