What best describes orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM)?

Orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) is best described as a multicarrier transport scheme where narrowband carriers are modulated independently. This technique divides a single data stream into multiple smaller sub-streams that are transmitted simultaneously using different frequencies (sub-carriers). Each sub-carrier is modulated independently, allowing for efficient use of the available bandwidth and improved resistance to interference and fading.

In OFDM, the sub-carriers are closely spaced and orthogonal to each other, which ensures that they can coexist without causing interference. This allows for a higher data rate and more efficient spectrum usage compared to traditional single-carrier transmission methods. By using multiple carriers, OFDM can mitigate issues like multipath propagation, which is common in modern communication environments.

The other choices do not accurately capture the essence of OFDM's operation and benefits. For instance, using a single carrier to transmit all data would describe a simpler modulation method, not leveraging the advantages of simultaneously transmitting multiple signals as in OFDM. Combining multiple signals into a single frequency does not occur in OFDM; instead, it spreads the data across multiple frequencies. Lastly, while OFDM can be used in broadcasting, it is not primarily associated with analog broadcasting, which typically does not use this