What happens to radar performance during adverse atmospheric conditions?

The correct answer highlights a fundamental aspect of radar performance. During adverse atmospheric conditions, such as varying temperatures, humidity, or precipitation, the propagation of radar signals can be affected. While the speed of electromagnetic waves, including radar signals, technically remains constant at the speed of light, these conditions can cause the radar signals to bend or refract.

When atmospheric conditions are unfavorable, the radar signals may travel along a curved path rather than in a straight line. This bending can lead to suboptimal detection and tracking of targets, as the radar may experience areas of reduced reliability in performance. This means that while the "signal speed" is not technically slowed in a way that can be measured directly, the practical effect of adverse conditions can simulate a decrease in effective radar performance.

Overall, understanding the nuances of how environmental factors influence radar signals is crucial for assessing and interpreting radar performance accurately during operations.