What is the name of a high-frequency electromagnetic wave that is modulated to convey a signal?

The term "carrier waves" refers to high-frequency electromagnetic waves that can be modulated to convey information or signals. In communication systems, carrier waves serve as a means to transmit information over long distances. By modulating the carrier wave—through techniques such as amplitude modulation (AM) or frequency modulation (FM)—information can be encoded onto the wave. This allows for the effective delivery of radio, television, and other forms of communication.

Other types of electromagnetic waves listed, such as microwaves or infrared waves, are specific subcategories of the electromagnetic spectrum but do not specifically function as modulatable waves for conveying information in the same way carrier waves do. "Baseband signals" refer to a type of signal that has not been modulated and is used in local transmission rather than as a carrier for high-frequency communications. Thus, understanding the role of carrier waves is essential in the context of signal transmission and modulation.