Final answer:
Radio frequencies have a steadier and clearer signal when traveling parallel to the Earth's surface due to the refractory tendency in the atmosphere and antenna orientation parallel to the electric field.
Step-by-step explanation:
The reason for the steadier and clearer signal of radio frequencies that travel parallel to the Earth's surface in the atmosphere is primarily due to the refractory tendency of radio frequency in the atmosphere. FM and TV waves, for example, are not absorbed and can travel easily through our atmosphere. The ionosphere reflects AM radio waves, allowing them to travel long distances around the Earth's curve. Furthermore, according to antenna theory, an antenna has a stronger response when its wires are oriented parallel to the electric field of the radio wave. Thus, the orientation and the nature of the Earth's atmosphere contribute to the clarity and steadiness of radio signals when they travel parallel to the Earth's surface.