Gravitation: Transfer Orbit MCQ

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Transfer OrbitHardQuestion 30731

Question

To move a satellite from lower orbit (r₁) to higher orbit (r₂, a Hohmann transfer), what must be done?

A
Apply a single forward thrust at r₁
B
Apply two forward thrusts: one at r₁ to enter ellipse, one at r₂ to circularise
Correct
C
Apply one backward thrust at r₁
D
No thrust needed — satellite spirals up naturally

Correct answer

Apply two forward thrusts: one at r₁ to enter ellipse, one at r₂ to circularise

Explanation

Hohmann transfer: 1st burn at r₁ raises apogee to r₂ (creating an ellipse). 2nd burn at r₂ circularises the orbit. This is the most energy-efficient two-impulse transfer.

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