Final answer:
The smallest observable detail utilizing 500-MHz radar is approximately 60 cm.
Step-by-step explanation:
Radar systems utilize electromagnetic waves to detect objects such as aircraft and geological terrain. The smallest observable detail utilizing 500-MHz radar can be estimated by using the formula:
Smallest Detail = Wavelength / 2
Since the frequency of the radar is 500 MHz (500 x 10^6 Hz), the wavelength can be calculated using the formula:
Wavelength = Speed of Light / Frequency
Assuming the speed of light to be 3 x 10^8 m/s, we can calculate:
Wavelength = (3 x 10^8 m/s) / (500 x 10^6 Hz) = 0.6 meters or 60 cm
Therefore, the smallest observable detail utilizing 500-MHz radar is approximately 60 cm.