The person who patented the use of radio waves to remotely control vehicles is ________.

• A. Marconi
• B. Bell
• C. Edison
• D. Nikola Tesla

Answer: (D)

Remote control of vehicles using radio waves was an early breakthrough in wireless control. Nikola Tesla patented a method and apparatus for controlling moving vessels by radio signals in 1898, and he even demonstrated a remotely controlled boat to show the concept. This work specifically linked radio communication to directing a device without a physical connection, which is why Tesla is the correct reference here. Marconi is famed for developing radio communication itself, not remote control of vehicles; Bell and Edison contributed in other areas of electricity and communication but did not patent this remote-control application.