Which of the following statements describes the carrier?

The carrier is indeed defined as a Radio Frequency (RF) signal that is modulated to carry intelligence. In telecommunications, a carrier wave serves as the basis for transmitting information over a distance. This RF signal is typically a continuous wave that can be altered (modulated) in amplitude, frequency, or phase to embed the information signal, which can be audio, video, or data.

The carrier signal is essential in various modulation techniques, such as amplitude modulation (AM) or frequency modulation (FM). By modifying the characteristics of the carrier wave, the information can be effectively transmitted and later retrieved by a receiver. This basic principle is fundamental to modern communication systems and forms the backbone of how signals are broadcast over radio frequencies.

The other statements, while they touch on aspects of modulation and signaling, do not accurately define what a carrier is or its role in communication systems. Thus, identifying the character of the carrier as a modulated RF signal encompassing intelligence solidifies the understanding of signal transmission in GMDSS and other communication protocols.