Space propulsion systems (ion thrusters, chemical rockets) MCQs – Aerospace

1. What is the primary principle behind ion thrusters?
(A) Ionization and acceleration of charged particles
(B) Combustion of chemical propellants
(C) Electromagnetic propulsion using magnetic fields
(D) Gravitational slingshot maneuvers

2. Which type of rocket engine is known for its high specific impulse and efficiency in space propulsion?
(A) Ion Thruster
(B) Chemical Rocket
(C) Liquid-Fueled Rocket
(D) Solid-Fueled Rocket

3. What is the primary advantage of using chemical rockets for space propulsion?
(A) High thrust capability
(B) High specific impulse
(C) Low power consumption
(D) Low operational cost

4. Which propulsion system utilizes the expulsion of ions to generate thrust?
(A) Ion Thruster
(B) Liquid Rocket Engine
(C) Solid Rocket Motor
(D) Hybrid Rocket Engine

5. What is the main disadvantage of ion thrusters compared to chemical rockets?
(A) Lower thrust levels
(B) Higher fuel consumption
(C) Greater weight
(D) More complex design

6. Which type of propulsion system is commonly used for long-duration space missions due to its efficiency?
(A) Ion Thruster
(B) Chemical Rocket
(C) Solid Rocket Motor
(D) Hybrid Rocket Engine

7. What is the primary source of energy for ion thrusters?
(A) Electrical power
(B) Chemical reactions
(C) Solar radiation
(D) Gravitational forces

8. Which propulsion system uses chemical reactions to generate thrust through high-speed exhaust gases?
(A) Chemical Rocket
(B) Ion Thruster
(C) Electric Propulsion
(D) Magnetic Propulsion

9. What is the key performance metric for chemical rockets?
(A) Specific impulse
(B) Electrical efficiency
(C) Ionization rate
(D) Magnetic field strength

10. What type of rocket engine is typically used for launching payloads into orbit?
(A) Chemical Rocket
(B) Ion Thruster
(C) Hall Effect Thruster
(D) Pulsed Plasma Thruster