THz Communication
Terahertz (0.1-10 THz) wireless communication offering massive bandwidth for ultra-high data rates, challenged by extreme path loss and atmospheric absorption.
Terahertz sits in the band roughly between microwave and infrared light, from about 0.1 to 10 THz, and it's tantalising for one reason: there's an enormous amount of unused bandwidth up there, enough to support data rates that lower bands simply can't reach. That's why it's a headline candidate for 6G.
The trouble is physics, and it's stubborn. Path loss at these frequencies is severe, and on top of that the atmosphere itself absorbs THz energy — water vapour and oxygen carve out absorption peaks where signals barely propagate at all. Practical THz links end up very short range and highly directional, leaning on tight beamforming and clear line of sight, and they're easily blocked by walls, rain, or even a person stepping into the path. So the realistic early role isn't wide-area coverage but specific high-capacity scenarios — fixed wireless backhaul, fronthaul, indoor hotspots, and kiosk-style "download a movie in a second" spots — rather than replacing the bands that actually reach you.
Frequently asked questions
- Why is terahertz spectrum so hard to use?
- Two reasons. First, path loss is extreme at these frequencies, so signals fade fast over distance. Second, the atmosphere absorbs terahertz energy — water vapour and oxygen create bands where the signal is almost completely soaked up. The result is very short range, highly directional links that need clear line of sight and break easily when something blocks the path. That confines THz to short-range, high-capacity uses rather than wide coverage.
Related terms
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