Space MIAD Practice Test

Drag experienced by a satellite is dependent on which factors?

1. Altitude and velocity

2. Size and shape

3. Weight and material

4. Speed and angle of entry

The correct answer is: Size and shape

The drag experienced by a satellite is primarily dependent on factors related to its physical attributes and the characteristics of its interaction with the atmosphere. The correct choice emphasizes the significance of size and shape. Size is crucial because a larger surface area can produce more drag; the greater the area exposed to the flow of air (or atmospheric particles), the higher the resistance encountered as the satellite moves through the atmosphere. Similarly, the shape of the satellite influences its aerodynamic properties. A streamlined shape aligns more efficiently with the flow of air, reducing drag, whereas a blunt or irregularly shaped object will experience increased resistance. While factors like altitude and velocity do affect drag indirectly through changes in air density, the fundamental characteristics of the satellite—its size and shape—play a more direct role in determining how much drag it will encounter as it travels through the atmosphere.