ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

FM broadcasting in the United States

Okay kiddo, so FM broadcasting is like when you listen to the radio, but instead of AM (which stands for amplitude modulation), they use a different way of sending the signals called FM (which stands for frequency modulation).

In the United States, the government has rules about who can use FM signals and how strong they can be. This is to make sure that the signals from different stations don't interfere with each other and cause a big jumble of noise on the radio.

Each radio station has a special frequency that it uses to send out its signals. They have to get permission from the government to use that frequency, and then they have to follow the rules about how strong they can make their signal.

When you tune in to a radio station on FM, you're actually tuning in to that station's frequency. That's why you might hear a little static if you drive away from the station or if something blocks the signals, like a big hill or a building.

But overall, FM radio is a great way to listen to music, news, and other things that people want to share with others over the airwaves!