Problem 48 - A Complete Resource Book in Chemistry for JEE Main

Question

SLV-3 uses which of the following propellant? (a) liquid (b) solid (c) biliquid (d) solid-liquid

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The SLV-3 uses solid propellant (option b).

Step 1: Understand the Context of SLV-3

The Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV-3) was the first Indian launch vehicle, developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to place payloads in orbit. Understanding SLV-3's specifications is critical to answering the question.

Step 2: Identify the Type of Propellant Used

SLV-3 was a four-stage rocket. Each stage of a rocket may use different types of propellants: solid propellants, liquid propellants, or a combination. SLV-3 was primarily powered by solid propellants in all its stages.

Step 3: Match the Propellant Type to the Options

Having identified that SLV-3 uses solid propellants, compare this information with the given options to find the correct one. The options provided are (a) liquid, (b) solid, (c) biliquid, and (d) solid-liquid. The correct match is (b) solid.

Key Concepts

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)

The Indian Space Research Organisation, commonly known as ISRO, is the space agency of the Government of India. It is headquartered in Bengaluru and is renowned globally for its methodological and cost-effective approaches to space exploration. ISRO was founded on August 15, 1969, with a mission to harness space technology for national development while pursuing space science research and planetary exploration.
ISRO has been instrumental in transforming India into a formidable force in the field of space technology. Some key achievements include the development of several indigenous satellite launch vehicles, notably the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), which has an impressive record of successful launches. ISRO also captivated international audiences with successful missions like the Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan), making India the first country to successfully reach Mars on its first attempt. The organisation continues to work on innovative technology and aims to implement future projects focused on space exploration and the establishment of astronautic advancements.

Solid Propellants

Solid propellants are a type of rocket propellant used in rocket engines. They consist of a mixture of oxidizer and fuel binded into a solid form. This type of propellant is seen as an advantageous option due to its simplicity and reliability. Unlike liquid propellants, solid propellants do not require complex plumbing or pumping, making the rocket engine simpler and less prone to mechanical failure.
Some key characteristics of solid propellants include:

• Stability: Solid propellants are stable at room temperature and can be stored for extended periods without degradation.
• Instantaneous Ignition: They can be ignited easily and provide instant thrust, which is beneficial for missile and space launch applications.
• Cost-effective: The manufacturing process is generally more straightforward, making solid propellant rockets less expensive to produce compared to their liquid counterparts.

Overall, these features make solid propellants a popular choice, as seen with ISRO's SLV-3, which successfully utilized four stages of solid propellants.

Rocket Stages

Rocket stages refer to the compartments or sections in a rocket that are designed to hold the fuel and engines necessary for propelling the rocket. Each stage of a rocket is jettisoned once its fuel is expended, to reduce the mass of the remaining vehicle and allow for greater speed and higher elevations.
Typically, multi-stage rockets include:

• First Stage: Generates the primary force required to lift the rocket off the ground and through the lower atmosphere.
• Second Stage (and subsequent stages): Further propels the rocket after the first stage is detached, allowing it to reach higher altitudes.
• Final Stage: Would typically place the payload into the desired orbit or trajectory.

The technique of staging is rooted in reducing weight and increasing efficiency. For instance, SLV-3 utilized four solid propellant stages that worked in harmony to launch satellites into space. Multi-staging allows engineers to design more efficient rockets capable of launching substantial payloads into orbit or beyond. Each stage plays a crucial role in the success of a launch mission, directly impacting the ability of the rocket to reach and stay in orbit.