Final answer:
AM/FM technologies remain significant in modern communications and are not at their end. AM is appreciated for its long-range and reliability in emergencies, while FM is preferred for high-quality sound in music and TV audio broadcasts.
Step-by-step explanation:
You asked whether it is really the end of AM/FM technologies, and it is important to examine this in the context of their ongoing relevance. Despite the rise of digital streaming and other advanced technologies, both AM (Amplitude Modulation) and FM (Frequency Modulation) continue to play significant roles in modern communication systems.
AM radio, utilizing frequencies from 540 to 2830 kHz, is well-known for its ability to travel over great distances, which makes it particularly useful in rural or remote areas where other forms of communication may not be as reliable. Moreover, AM radio's longevity can also be attributed to its use in emergency communications, since AM signals can be received by simple receivers and thus remain a vital resource during natural disasters or other emergencies when newer technologies might fail.
FM radio, operating in the range of 87.5 to 108.0 MHz, offers higher quality sound and less static compared to AM, making it a preferred choice for music broadcasting and high-fidelity content. FM radio also retains a strong foothold in vehicle entertainment systems: Most modern cars still come with FM radio receivers as standard equipment, ensuring that FM remains a part of the daily commute and travel experience.
In addition to entertainment, both AM and FM radios have maintained their importance in talk shows, sports broadcasting, and political discourse. This enduring presence is evidenced by the continued popularity of broadcasters and the fact that in some instances, FM receivers can even pick up the audio portion of television broadcasts, suggesting there is some overlap in the use of FM for TV audio.
As for one main technology where frequency modulation is notably relevant, this would be the use of FM signals in television audio. It's true that television pictures are transmitted differently, but the audio portion is often carried via FM because of the aforementioned advantages of better sound quality and reliability.