This may sound like a dumb question but does the engine need to be on for a cb radio to work?

I know nothing about how eighteen wheeler trucks and cb radio's operate. I'm just writing up a project for school.This may sound like a dumb question but does the engine need to be on for a cb radio to work?
There's no reason it would have to, although it will depend on how the electrical system is wired. Some are wired so that the electrical equipment will only be on while the engine is running, but that's not generally the case.This may sound like a dumb question but does the engine need to be on for a cb radio to work?
That depends on how the CB is hooked up, most generally they are hooked up straight to the battery, in this case no, the engine does not need to be running. Some people have their CB tied into something in or under the dash, in this case the engine does not need to be running, but you may have to turn the key all the way back to accessories in order for the CB to come on much like your stereo in your car. You can also put a cigarette adapter on your CB and plug it into the cigarette lighter to get power without the engine running. Most truckers have their CB hooked straight up to the trucks battery or to something that has constant 12 volt power regardless whether the engine is running or not.This may sound like a dumb question but does the engine need to be on for a cb radio to work?
It just needs a 12 volt power supply and well-matched antenna.