In the very high frequency band, what is the key characteristic of ground wave communication?

In the very high frequency (VHF) band, ground wave communication is characterized by the ability of radio waves to follow the contour of the Earth's surface, making it effective for areas that are relatively close to the transmission source. Ground waves can propagate efficiently over land and water, but their range is generally limited to a few hundred kilometers, especially under typical conditions.

The correct understanding of ground wave communication is that it is indeed usable; however, its effectiveness diminishes as distance increases. Ground wave propagation can be influenced by various factors, including terrain and frequency. While it may not have the vast reach of sky waves, it can provide reliable communication for distances adequate for localized services or regional coverage.

It's important to note that while the other choices present characteristics that might seem relevant, they do not accurately reflect the nature of ground wave communication in the VHF band. For instance, the idea that ground waves are completely unusable fails to recognize their application in short-range communication scenarios.