Spacecraft power systems (solar panels, batteries) MCQs – Aerospace

1. What is the primary function of solar panels on a spacecraft?
(A) To convert sunlight into electrical power
(B) To provide propulsion
(C) To manage temperature
(D) To control attitude

2. Which component in a spacecraft power system stores electrical energy for use when sunlight is not available?
(A) Battery
(B) Solar Panel
(C) Thermoelectric Generator
(D) Fuel Cell

3. What is the main advantage of using solar panels for spacecraft power generation?
(A) They provide a continuous source of power as long as the spacecraft is in sunlight
(B) They are easy to transport
(C) They are cost-effective to replace
(D) They require no maintenance

4. Which type of battery is commonly used in spacecraft for its high energy density and reliability?
(A) Lithium-Ion Battery
(B) Nickel-Cadmium Battery
(C) Lead-Acid Battery
(D) Zinc-Air Battery

5. What is the primary role of a power management system in a spacecraft?
(A) To distribute and regulate electrical power from various sources
(B) To control the spacecraft’s attitude
(C) To provide propulsion
(D) To manage thermal conditions

6. What is the main disadvantage of using batteries in spacecraft power systems?
(A) Limited capacity and lifespan compared to solar panels
(B) High cost
(C) High weight
(D) Complex maintenance requirements

7. Which spacecraft power system component converts heat directly into electrical power?
(A) Thermoelectric Generator
(B) Solar Panel
(C) Battery
(D) Fuel Cell

8. What is the function of a power distribution unit (PDU) in a spacecraft?
(A) To distribute electrical power to various subsystems and components
(B) To generate power from sunlight
(C) To store electrical energy
(D) To control spacecraft temperature

9. Which type of solar panel is commonly used in spacecraft due to its high efficiency and durability?
(A) Multi-Junction Solar Panel
(B) Monocrystalline Solar Panel
(C) Polycrystalline Solar Panel
(D) Amorphous Solar Panel

10. What is the main advantage of using a high-efficiency solar panel in a spacecraft power system?
(A) It maximizes power generation from available sunlight
(B) It reduces the spacecraft’s weight
(C) It lowers the cost of power generation
(D) It simplifies power management