In the context of the Indian space programme, what is the correct full form of the abbreviation GSLV used for one of the launch vehicles of ISRO?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Abbreviations related to space technology and Indian research organisations appear regularly in competitive exams. ISRO uses several launch vehicles with different capabilities, and their names are commonly shortened into acronyms. Understanding the correct expansion of GSLV helps you interpret space related news and avoid confusion with similar sounding terms.


Given Data / Assumptions:
- The question asks for the full form of GSLV in the Indian space programme context.
- The options are different possible expansions of the letters G, S, L and V.
- We assume GSLV refers to a specific launch vehicle designed to place satellites into a particular type of orbit.


Concept / Approach:
The central concept is that GSLV is designed to place satellites into geosynchronous or geostationary orbits. Hence, the letter G stands for Geosynchronous in the formal name. The rest of the acronym is Satellite Launch Vehicle, which directly describes its function. By linking the role of the rocket with the meaning of each letter, you can quickly identify the correct expansion and eliminate distractors that use incorrect words such as Ground or Group.


Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that PSLV stands for Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle and is used for polar orbits. Step 2: Remember that GSLV is used to launch satellites into geosynchronous or geostationary orbits, commonly used for communication satellites. Step 3: From this, conclude that G in GSLV must stand for Geosynchronous. Step 4: Recognise that SLV in both names expands to Satellite Launch Vehicle, describing the rocket itself. Step 5: Select Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle as the only option that matches this reasoning.


Verification / Alternative check:
As verification, you can think of news headlines that mention GSLV Mk II or GSLV Mk III launches of communication satellites. These satellites typically occupy geosynchronous orbits, which remain fixed relative to the Earths surface. This close link between geosynchronous operations and the launch vehicle name confirms the expansion. None of the other suggested expansions relate as clearly to the orbits served by this rocket.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Ground Satellite Launching Vehicle is incorrect because the word Ground does not describe the orbit or mission and is not used in official ISRO terminology.
Gravity Synchronous Launching Vehicle is a misleading phrase, as gravity affects all orbits and the standard term in space science is geosynchronous, not gravity synchronous.
Group Satellite Launching Vehicle is also wrong, as the vehicle is not defined primarily by launching groups of satellites but by the type of orbit it serves.
General Satellite Launch Vehicle is too vague and does not match the specific naming convention ISRO uses to distinguish between different launch vehicle families.


Common Pitfalls:
Some candidates mix up GSLV and PSLV and forget which one is for polar orbits and which is for geosynchronous orbits. Others may be tempted by options that sound grammatically neat, such as General Satellite Launch Vehicle. To avoid such pitfalls, connect each acronym with a clear mental picture: PSLV for polar sun synchronous missions and GSLV for high altitude geosynchronous communication satellites.


Final Answer:
The full form of the acronym GSLV in the Indian space programme is Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle.

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