What is one advantage of using secondary radar over primary radar?

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Using secondary radar provides the advantage of offering altitude information, which is crucial for air traffic control. This system relies on transponders on the aircraft that respond to signals from the radar with specific information. When an aircraft's transponder is activated, it transmits a unique code along with altitude data back to the radar system. This capability not only helps identify the aircraft’s position horizontally but also adds a vertical dimension, significantly enhancing situational awareness for air traffic controllers. The ability to determine altitude is essential for maintaining safe vertical separation between aircraft, which is vital for the safe management of airspace, especially in busy environments.

In contrast to this, options about less maintenance or longer ranges do not accurately represent the primary benefits of secondary radar. While identifying aircraft types can be a feature of secondary radar, the ability to provide altitude information serves as a more definitive advantage that directly aids in flight safety and management.