Why is pulse width critical in radar systems?

The significance of pulse width in radar systems is integral to achieving precise target identification and range measurement. This characteristic fundamentally impacts range resolution, which is the capability of a radar system to distinguish between two closely spaced objects. A shorter pulse width generally results in enhanced range resolution because it allows the radar to differentiate between targets that are closer together in distance.

When the pulse width is long, the radar signal can overlap, making it challenging to separate two targets that are near each other. In contrast, a reduced pulse width decreases the time duration of the transmitted signal, reducing the potential for overlap and allowing the radar system to accurately detect and resolve targets in proximity.

This aspect is crucial for applications where precision is vital, such as in weather radar, air traffic control, and military operations, where discerning between individual targets is essential for operational effectiveness.