Final answer:
The use of offensive language violates FCC regulations, as indecent programming and profane language are restricted on public airwaves from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Obscene broadcasts are banned at all times. The other options provided do not directly violate FCC's indecency and profanity rules.
Step-by-step explanation:
Which of the following violates FCC regulations? The answer is the use of offensive language. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) categorically prohibits the use of obscene programming at any time and restricts indecent programming and profane language from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. This is due to the likelihood that children may be in the audience during these hours. Obscene broadcasts, which are not protected by the First Amendment, must meet a specific three-pronged test established by the Supreme Court. They must appeal to the prurient interest, depict or describe sexual conduct in a patently offensive way, and lack serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value.
Unauthorized abbreviations, excessive politeness, and improper use of 10 codes are not directly addressed by FCC regulations concerning indecency and profanity. However, enforcement of these regulations is largely complaint-driven, with consumers playing a critical role in reporting potential violations. Cases like the wardrobe malfunction during the Super Bowl halftime show in 2004 and actions against radio host Howard Stern highlight the FCC's role in policing public airwaves and enforcing decency standards, which have been backed by the authority granted in the case of Federal Communications Commission v. Pacifica Foundation.