5. Radar equation

Noise interferes with the detection of the desired signal in several ways:

• by interfering with the desired signal;

• by generating signals that can be mistaken for useful signals;

• by distorting the useful signal.

The first effect reduces the sensitivity of the radar receiver; signals that are too weak are drowned out by radar noise and, as a result, cannot be detected.

The second effect causes false readings or "false alarms."...