What is a "coverage map" in radio broadcasting?

A "coverage map" in radio broadcasting is a representation of a station's signal area. It illustrates the geographical regions where a radio station's signal is strong enough to provide reliable reception. These maps are essential for understanding how far a signal travels and the quality of reception in different areas, which can be influenced by factors like terrain, obstacles, and antenna height.

Coverage maps are crucial for both broadcasters and listeners. For broadcasters, they help in planning their transmission strategies and ensuring that they serve their audience effectively. For listeners, they indicate whether they can expect to receive a particular station's broadcasts in their location.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately describe what a coverage map is. A chart of radio frequencies pertains to the organization of frequencies used for broadcasting and does not show signal reach. A plot of listener demographics would involve information about the audience rather than the signal area itself. A guideline for equipment setup would offer instructions for installation and operation but would not visually represent signal coverage. Hence, the definition of a coverage map aligns precisely with its role in indicating the area where the broadcast signal is available.